Aamir Khan breaks silence on Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike (Img: X)
New Delhi: Actor Aamir Khan has clarified that his iconic character Rancho (Phunsukh Wangdu) in the 2009 film 3 Idiots was not inspired by Ladakh-based engineer and activist Sonam Wangchuk, while expressing concern over Wangchuk's health as he continues his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.
Speaking at the London Indian Film Festival, where he attended a special screening of Lagaan, Aamir responded to a question about the widely held belief that Sonam Wangchuk inspired his character in 3 Idiots.
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The actor said the claim was incorrect and that neither director Rajkumar Hirani nor writer Abhijat Joshi knew Wangchuk when the film was made.
"That is a misconception. We didn't know about Mr Sonam at that time. However, what Mr Sonam is doing is good work. He doesn't have to be the inspiration for 3 Idiots for us to respect him."
Aamir also spoke about Wangchuk's ongoing hunger strike, saying everyone is worried about his health. "All of us are very concerned for his health and his life. We hope it ends well. We hope he ends his fast."
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Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 28 at Jantar Mantar, supporting a protest demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and reforms to India's examination system.
His health has become a growing concern as the fast enters its third week, with several political leaders, activists and members of the film industry extending their support.
