Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has clarified that his iconic character Phunsukh Wangdu, popularly known as Rancho, in the 2009 blockbuster 3 Idiots was not inspired by education reformer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. The actor also expressed concern over Wangchuk's health and appealed for him to end his ongoing hunger strike.
Speaking during a question-and-answer session at the London Indian Film Festival following a special screening of Lagaan, Aamir addressed the long-standing belief that 3 Idiots was based on Wangchuk's life. Calling it a "misconception," he said neither he, director Rajkumar Hirani, nor writer Abhijat Joshi knew Wangchuk when the film was being made. He also referred to a recent video by his co-star Omi Vaidya, saying the assumption was incorrect.
Aamir stressed that Sonam Wangchuk's work deserves respect regardless of any connection to the film. "He doesn't have to be based on the character for us to respect him," the actor said, noting that Wangchuk himself has previously clarified that the film's character was not based on him.
Responding to a question about Wangchuk's ongoing indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, Aamir expressed deep concern over the activist's health. "I think all of us are very concerned for his health and life. All of us are hoping that he ends his fast," he said, while wishing for Wangchuk's well-being.
Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 28, and his deteriorating health has drawn attention from political leaders, civil society groups, and public figures. Aamir's remarks are among the first public comments he has made on the issue, adding his voice to growing calls for the activist's health and safety to be prioritised while reiterating that the popular association between 3 Idiots and Wangchuk is factually incorrect.
