Amid activist Sonam Wangchuk’s ongoing hunger strike, Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has addressed the long-running speculation that his iconic film ‘3 Idiots’ was inspired by Wangchuk’s life. The actor has clarified that the blockbuster movie was not based on the educationist or his journey, calling the connection a misunderstanding.

During his appearance at the London premiere event of ‘Lagaan’, Aamir Khan was asked about the popular belief that the character of Rancho (Phunsukh Wangdu) from 3 Idiots was inspired by Sonam Wangchuk. Responding to the question, the actor firmly denied the claim and explained that he was not even aware of Wangchuk when the film was being made.

Aamir Khan Says ‘3 Idiots’ Connection With Sonam Wangchuk Is Incorrect

Aamir Khan stated that the idea linking 3 Idiots with Sonam Wangchuk is based on incorrect information. He revealed that during the shooting of the 2009 film, neither he nor the writers knew about Wangchuk’s work.

The actor said that the claim may have originated after actor Omi Vaidya, who played the character of Chatur Ramalingam in the film, mentioned the connection in a video. However, Aamir clarified that the statement was not based on facts.

According to Aamir, both writers Rajkumar Hirani and Abhijat Joshi, along with the entire team, were unaware of Sonam Wangchuk while developing the story of 3 Idiots.

Aamir Praises Sonam Wangchuk’s Work

While rejecting the claims, Aamir Khan also appreciated Sonam Wangchuk’s contributions to education and innovation. He said that Wangchuk’s work deserves respect on its own and does not need any connection with a fictional character from a movie.

The actor emphasized that acknowledging someone’s achievements should not depend on whether they inspired a popular film character or not.

Aamir Khan Expresses Concern Over Sonam Wangchuk’s Health

Speaking about Sonam Wangchuk’s health during his hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, Aamir Khan expressed concern and said that everyone is worried about his well-being.

The actor hoped that the situation would improve soon and that Wangchuk would end his hunger strike.

Omi Vaidya Had Earlier Linked Rancho’s Character With Wangchuk

Earlier, Omi Vaidya, who became popular as ‘Silencer’ or Chatur in 3 Idiots, had shared a video supporting Sonam Wangchuk. He had suggested that the character of Rancho, played by Aamir Khan, was inspired by Wangchuk’s ideas and personality.

However, Aamir Khan’s recent statement has clarified that the similarity between Rancho’s character and Wangchuk’s work was only a coincidence and not the actual inspiration behind the film.

Also read this:- 3 Idiots Star Omi Vaidya Supports Sonam Wangchuk's Ongoing Fast

Released in 2009, ‘3 Idiots’, directed by Rajkumar Hirani, remains one of Bollywood’s most successful films. The movie became a cultural phenomenon for its message about the education system, friendship, and following one’s passion.