Aamir Khan Dismisses ‘3 Idiots’ Inspiration Claims, Voices Support for Sonam Wangchuk’s Well-Being

London, July 17, 2026;

Actor Aamir Khan has put to rest years of speculation linking the central character of the 2009 film 3 Idiots to education reformer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. Speaking during an interaction at the London Indian Film Festival, the actor said the popular belief is incorrect and that the filmmakers were unfamiliar with Wangchuk while developing the film.

Aamir explained that neither director Rajkumar Hirani nor writer Abhijat Joshi had known Sonam Wangchuk during the scripting process. Referring to recent remarks made by his co-star Omi Vaidya, who played Chatur in the film, Aamir said the comments reflected Vaidya’s personal understanding and not the reality behind the film’s creation.

The actor also responded to questions regarding Wangchuk’s ongoing hunger strike. Expressing deep concern over the activist’s health, Aamir said everyone is worried about his condition and sincerely hopes the protest reaches a peaceful conclusion soon.

The discussion took place during Aamir Khan’s appearance at the 17th edition of the London Indian Film Festival, where he participated in a special conversation with audiences about cinema and his career.

The clarification comes days after Omi Vaidya released a video expressing concern over Sonam Wangchuk’s deteriorating health. In the message, Vaidya had stated that the character of Phunsukh Wangdu was inspired by Wangchuk and appealed for the activist’s safety.

Aamir’s latest remarks, however, make it clear that the makers of 3 Idiots did not base the celebrated character on Sonam Wangchuk, ending a long-standing public assumption surrounding one of Indian cinema’s most iconic films.