Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has addressed the long-standing belief that his iconic character Phunsukh Wangdu from 3 Idiots was based on education reformer Sonam Wangchuk. Speaking at an event hosted by the British Film Institute in England, the actor called the claim a misconception. He also expressed concern over Wangchuk's health as the activist continues his indefinite hunger strike demanding action over the alleged NEET paper leak.
Aamir Khan Says His 3 Idiot Role Was Not Based On Sonam Wangchuk
Responding to a question during the event, Aamir said the makers of 3 Idiots did not know Sonam Wangchuk while making the film.
He said, "That is a misconception. I know I saw a video of Chatur (Omi Vaidya) recently. He is wrong. Neither director Rajkumar Hirani, nor writer Abhijat Joshi knew Wangchuk while making the film."
The actor added that Sonam Wangchuk himself has clarified several times that the character was not based on his life.
Why Debate Started Again?
The discussion resurfaced after actor Omi Vaidya, who played Chatur in 3 Idiots, recently shared photos with Sonam Wangchuk and said that Aamir Khan's character, Phunsukh Wangdu, had been based on the activist.
However, Aamir rejected the claim and said Wangchuk's achievements should be respected on their own, without linking them to the film.
Today at @BFI I asked Mr Amir Khan about @Wangchuk66 and his fast. Here is his response: @abhijeet_dipke @CJP_2029 @Cockroachisback @SauravDassss pic.twitter.com/jkeKFssrDX
— nabanita sircar (@sircarnabanita) July 16, 2026
Aamir Khan Also Speaks About Wangchuk's Health
Aamir also expressed concern over Wangchuk's ongoing hunger strike, saying everyone is worried about his well-being.
He said, "All of us are very concerned for his health and his life. We hope it ends well. All of us are hoping that he ends his fast."
The actor stressed that Wangchuk's work deserves recognition regardless of any connection with 3 Idiots.
What Sonam Wangchuk Has Said About 3 Idiots
Sonam Wangchuk has earlier clarified that while the film may have been influenced by some of his work, the character was not his life story.
During an appearance on Kaun Banega Crorepati, he said, "If you say inspired, then I won't deny it. A lot of people say the film is based on me, but I don't agree with that. The right word is that it may have been inspired or influenced."
Why Wangchuk Is On Hunger Strike?
Sonam Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar on June 28. He is demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan along with CJP (Cockroach Janta Party) over the alleged NEET paper leak.
Despite reports about his declining health, Wangchuk has continued the protest, drawing support from politicians and members of the film industry.