Find out why Aamir Khan says Rancho’s character in 3 Idiots was never based on real-life innovator Sonam Wangchuk.
Aamir Khan has finally broken a long-standing myth that his 3 Idiots character Rancho/Phunsukh Wangdu was inspired by Ladakhi innovator Sonam Wangchuk.
For years, fans connected the dots between Rancho’s inventive spirit and Wangchuk’s real-life educational work, but Khan has now clarified that the film’s writers had never even heard of the activist during its development. The revelation came at the London Indian Film Festival after co-star Omi Vaidya (who played Chatur in the film) reignited the debate in a viral video supporting Wangchuk’s current protest.
The Bollywood superstar said the screenplay was entirely original and that Wangchuk’s achievements stand independently without needing cinematic validation.
Interestingly, Wangchuk himself has always distanced his work from the film, stating he was never consulted and was troubled by constant comparisons. He stressed that his focus is on real-world innovation, not Bollywood storytelling, and even avoided legal action to prevent assumptions of chasing compensation.
Khan echoed this, reminding audiences that Wangchuk had already clarified the character was not based on him, urging everyone to focus instead on the activist’s health.
Wangchuk’s health is now at the center of national concern. He is on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister over the NEET exam paper leak scandal. Surviving only on water, he has lost nearly 9 kilograms in under three weeks, with doctors warning of severe organ damage.
The Delhi High Court has ordered daily medical monitoring as his condition grows increasingly fragile. While Khan has shut down the cinematic myth, he extended strong moral support to Wangchuk’s cause, joining the chorus of voices hoping the activist ends his fast safely.
Adding to the buzz, Aamir had previously confirmed that a sequel to 3 Idiots is in the works. His revelation had sent fans into a frenzy, eager to see how the beloved story will evolve more than a decade later.
