Aamir Khan Clarifies '3 Idiots' Character Was Not Based on Sonam Wangchuk

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has clarified that his iconic character Phunsukh Wangdu in the 2009 blockbuster 3 Idiots was not inspired by educationist and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, calling the long-standing belief a "misconception."

Speaking at the ongoing London Indian Film Festival, Aamir responded to a question from the audience about whether Sonam Wangchuk had inspired the character.

"No, that's not true actually. That is a misconception," Aamir said reportedly.

The actor explained that neither he nor the film's creators were aware of Wangchuk while making the film.

"Neither Raju (Rajkumar Hirani), nor Abhijat (Abhijat Joshi), nor I knew about Sonam when we were making the film," he said, adding that the misunderstanding may have stemmed from comments made by co-star Omi Vaidya, who played Chatur in the film.

Aamir said Sonam Wangchuk's work deserves recognition regardless of any perceived connection with 3 Idiots.

"He doesn't have to be based on the character of 3 Idiots for us to respect him. From a factual point of view, I wanted to clarify that the character was not based on him. He has also clarified this himself," the actor said.

Aamir on Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike

When asked about Sonam Wangchuk's ongoing hunger strike, Aamir expressed concern for his well-being.

"I think all of us are very concerned for his health and his life. We hope everything ends well and that he ends his fast and takes care of his health," he said.

Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, 3 Idiots was released in 2009 and starred Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan and Sharman Joshi in the lead roles. The film, a satire on India's education system, went on to become one of the biggest commercial and critical successes in Hindi cinema.