Aamir Khan clears air on ‘3 Idiots’ inspiration, says Rancho was not based on Sonam Wangchuk; urges him to end hunger strike
PTC Web Desk: Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has dismissed the long-standing belief that his popular 3 Idiots character, Phunsukh Wangdu (Rancho), was inspired by Ladakh-based innovator and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk.
Speaking during an interaction at the London Indian Film Festival (LIFF), the actor said the makers of the 2009 film had no knowledge of Wangchuk when the story was written. While rejecting the claim, Aamir Khan praised Wangchuk's contribution to education and appealed to him to end his ongoing hunger strike due to growing concerns over his health.
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Aamir Khan said the comparison between Rancho and Sonam Wangchuk has become a widespread misconception over the years.
According to the actor, neither he nor the film's writers were aware of Wangchuk during the development of 3 Idiots. He added that although the film was not inspired by the education reformer, Wangchuk's work deserves appreciation on its own.
Khan also expressed concern over Wangchuk's indefinite fast, saying many people are worried as his health continues to decline.
During the interaction, Aamir Khan also addressed a recent video shared by his 3 Idiots co-star Omi Vaidya, who played Chatur Ramalingam in the film.
In the video, Vaidya had supported Wangchuk's protest and suggested that the character of Phunsukh Wangdu was based on the Ladakhi engineer. Khan clarified that this claim was factually incorrect.
He stressed that Sonam Wangchuk's achievements do not require any connection with a film character for people to recognise and respect his contribution to society.
Sonam Wangchuk is currently on an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, demanding accountability and reforms in the country's education system following the NEET examination paper leak controversy.
The protest has now continued for more than two weeks. Reports indicate that the prolonged fast has significantly affected Wangchuk's health, with doctors and supporters expressing concern over his falling blood pressure and blood sugar levels. He has also reportedly lost around 8 to 9 kg during the protest.
While clarifying the facts surrounding 3 Idiots, Aamir Khan concluded by extending his support to Wangchuk's cause and appealed to him to put his health first.
The actor joined several public figures who have urged the education reformer to end his hunger strike, saying his work and message are important and should continue without risking his life.
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- With inputs from agencies
