Bollywood star Aamir Khan Reacting to the activist: Sonam WangchukThe ongoing hunger strike and expressed his concern for his health and well-being.The actor, who attended the London India Film Festival, at the British Film Institute in London, sat down for a candid conversation, where he talked about his films and journey in the Bollywood industry. During a Q&A with the audience, the actor was asked about the long-held belief that his iconic ‘3 Idiots’ character, Phunsukh Wangdu, was based on Ladakh-based innovator Wangchuk.
Aamir Khan DENIED that ‘3 Idiots’ was based on Sonam Wangchuk
A video of Aamir’s interaction was shared on X by journalist Nabanita Sircar, who wrote, “Today at @BFI I asked Mr. Amir Khan about @Wangchuk66 and his fast. Here’s his answer.”In the clip, Aamir is asked about what many think is his character in the film inspired by Sonam Wangchuk. Responding to the claim, the actor said, “No! That is not true, actually. That is the misconception.”He went on to explain, “I didn’t know Mr Sonam at that time when we were doing the film ‘3 Idiots’. I know I saw a video of Chatur, recently, he said ‘No, he is wrong’. Rajkumar Hiranineither writer Abhijat Joshi, nor me… we know nothing about Mr. Sonam. However, what Mr. Sonam has done is a good job in any case. He doesn’t have to be based on a ‘3 Idiots’ character for us to respect him.”
Aamir Khan expressed concern for Sonam Wangchuk’s health
When asked if it had been clarified before, Aamir reiterated, “From a real point of view… In fact, Mr. Sonam said this. He also said that the character is not based on him.”The actor was also asked about Wangchuk’s hunger strike, which is now in its 19th day. Expressing concern, Aamir said, “Well, I think we are all worried about his health and his life. We hope it ends and everyone hopes he ends his fast. “
Is Sonam Wangchuk encouraging Phunsukh Wangdu?
For years, many believed that Khan’s character Phunsukh Wangdu in Rajkumar Hirani’s 2009 blockbuster ‘3 Idiots’ was modeled after Sonam Wangchuk, whose work in education and sustainable innovation has gained global recognition.The debate resurfaced recently after actor Omi Vaidya, who played the memorable character Chatur Ramalingam in the film, expressed his support for Wangchuk and addressed the popular belief that the character in the film is based on the activist.
Sonam Wangchuk denies Phunsukh Wangdu connection
However, Wangchuk also clarified that the character is not a big screen adaptation of his life. Talking about the constant comparison of a show with ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’, Wangchuk said, “If you say inspired, then I can’t deny it. Many people say that the film is based on me, but I don’t agree with that. The right word is that it can be influenced. At the same time, I don’t want the people of this country to be associated with something. So even though the film influenced me, I’m not too proud of it. And if it doesn’t inspire me, I don’t regret it either.”
‘3 Idiots. Part 2’ of the works
Meanwhile, according to the latest reports, Aamir Khan and director Rajkumar Hirani are currently busy working on the sequel, with principal photography slated to begin in late 2026.