After days of criticism over his silence, Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has finally spoken about activist Sonam Wangchuk and the ongoing hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. The actor also addressed the long-standing belief that the lead character in 3 Idiots was inspired by Sonam Wangchuk.
Speaking during an interaction at the British Film Institute (BFI), Aamir Khan was asked about Sonam Wangchuk and the popular claim that the film’s main character Phunsukh Wangdu was based on the activist. The discussion gained attention after Aamir’s 3 Idiots co-star Omi Vaidya, who played Chatur, publicly supported Sonam Wangchuk during his hunger strike.
Aamir Khan dismissed the claim and clarified that it was a misconception. He explained that when 3 Idiots was being made, neither he, director Rajkumar Hirani, nor writer Abhijat Joshi knew Sonam Wangchuk. He also mentioned that Sonam Wangchuk himself has previously clarified that the character was not based on him. Aamir added that the activist’s work deserves respect on its own and does not need any connection to the film.
The actor also reacted to Sonam Wangchuk’s ongoing hunger strike, saying that everyone is concerned about his health and well-being. He expressed hope that the situation ends positively and urged Sonam Wangchuk to take care of himself by ending the fast.
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Aamir Khan’s comments came after a video of Omi Vaidya’s remarks resurfaced online, leading to fresh debate over the issue. However, his clarification received mixed reactions on social media. Among those who responded was Saurav Das, Chief Spokesperson of the Cockroach Janta Party, who described Aamir’s response as disappointing.
Meanwhile, several celebrities have openly backed Sonam Wangchuk and voiced concern over his deteriorating health. Those who have publicly expressed support include Zeenat Aman, Soni Razdan, Omi Vaidya, Imran Khan, Swara Bhasker, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sonakshi Sinha and Fatima Sana Shaikh. Many of them have also appealed for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing situation.
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