Aamir Khan said that his character Phunsukh Wangdu in the 2009 film *3 Idiots* was not based on activist Sonam Wangchuk [1].
The clarification addresses long-standing public speculation regarding the inspiration for the movie's central figure. By distancing the fictional character from the real-life educationist, Khan separates the cinematic narrative from the current political and social struggles associated with Wangchuk.
Khan made the remarks during the London Indian Film Festival in London, United Kingdom [1]. The actor used the platform to address the perceived connection between the movie and the climate activist and educationist [2].
Beyond the cinematic clarification, Khan voiced significant concern regarding Wangchuk's physical well-being. At the time of the actor's comments, Wangchuk had been on a hunger strike for 20 days [3].
Wangchuk is known for his work in education and climate activism. Khan's decision to highlight the hunger strike during an international film festival brings global attention to the activist's current protests and health status [2].
The actor's comments serve to clarify the creative origins of the film while acknowledging the urgency of the activist's current situation. While *3 Idiots* remains a cultural touchstone in India, Khan said the character of Phunsukh Wangdu was not a reflection of Wangchuk [1].
“Aamir Khan said that his character Phunsukh Wangdu in the 2009 film 3 Idiots was not based on Sonam Wangchuk.”
This clarification decouples a popular piece of commercial cinema from a specific political movement. By addressing the rumor during a high-profile event in London, Khan manages the legacy of his film while leveraging his celebrity status to draw attention to Wangchuk's hunger strike and the underlying climate and educational issues the activist represents.
