Aamir Khan clears '3 Idiots' rumour, says film was not based on Sonam Wangchuk

Actor Aamir Khan has cleared the long-standing belief that the hit film 3 Idiots was based on engineer and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk. Speaking at the London Indian Film Festival, Aamir said that neither he nor the film's writers knew about Wangchuk while making the 2009 blockbuster directed by Rajkumar Hirani.

During a question-and-answer session, an audience member mentioned that the film was believed to be inspired by Sonam Wangchuk. Aamir politely corrected the claim and said it was simply not true.

‘Chatur Was Wrong,’ Says Aamir

Aamir also reacted to a recent viral video by his 3 Idiots co-star Omi Vaidya, who played the famous character Chatur Ramalingam. In the video, Omi had supported Sonam Wangchuk's protest and repeated the claim that the film's character Phunsukh Wangdu was inspired by Wangchuk.

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Responding to this, Aamir joked, "Chatur was wrong." He explained that what Omi said was factually incorrect because the makers of 3 Idiots had no knowledge of Sonam Wangchuk during the film's writing process.

Aamir Supports Sonam Wangchuk's Work

Although Aamir denied any connection between the film and Wangchuk, he praised the education reformer's work. He said Wangchuk is doing important work for society and deserves respect for his efforts.

Aamir also expressed concern over Wangchuk's health, saying many people are worried because his condition has become serious due to his ongoing hunger strike. He appealed for Wangchuk to end his fast and take care of his health.

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Sonam Wangchuk's Hunger Strike

Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar for more than two weeks. He started the protest after the NEET-UG paper leak controversy, demanding accountability, educational reforms, and better protection for students.

Reports suggest that the 59-year-old reformer has lost around 8 to 9 kilograms during the fast. His blood pressure and blood sugar levels have also dropped, raising concerns among doctors and supporters.

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Political Leaders Raise Concern

The issue has also drawn political attention. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut recently urged the High Court to take notice of Wangchuk's worsening health. He alleged that the government was being insensitive and called for accountability over the NEET paper leak. Raut also demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Aamir's Final Message

Aamir Khan ended his statement by saying that Sonam Wangchuk's achievements and social work do not need to be linked to 3 Idiots to earn respect. While correcting the misconception about the film, the actor joined several public figures in urging Wangchuk to end his hunger strike and protect his health.

- PTC PUNJABI