‘I Don’t Want Phunsukh Wangdu to Die’: 3 Idiots Actor Omi Vaidya Appeals for Support as Sonam Wangchuk Continues Hunger Strike
Actor Omi Vaidya, best known for playing Chatur Ramalingam in 3 Idiots, has appealed for public support for Sonam Wangchuk.
New Delhi: Actor Omi Vaidya, who became a household name after playing the character Chatur Ramalingam (Silencer) in the popular Bollywood film 3 Idiots, has expressed concern over the health of education reformer and engineer Sonam Wangchuk amid his ongoing hunger strike.
Sharing a video on social media, Omi Vaidya urged people to pay attention to Wangchuk’s condition and support his cause. Referring to the famous character Phunsukh Wangdu from 3 Idiots, who was inspired by Wangchuk’s real-life work, the actor made an emotional appeal, saying, “I don’t want Phunsukh Wangdu to die.”
Introducing himself as Chatur from 3 Idiots, Vaidya told viewers that the fictional inventor shown in the film was based on a real person — Sonam Wangchuk, a Ladakhi engineer, innovator and education reformer.
The actor said he had personally met Wangchuk and described him as an inspiring personality. Expressing concern over his health, Vaidya said that Wangchuk’s blood sugar levels had dropped significantly during the prolonged hunger strike and urged people to be aware of the situation.
“Whether you agree with him or not, I don’t really want this guy to die,” Vaidya said while appealing for attention towards Wangchuk’s protest.
Why Is Sonam Wangchuk on Hunger Strike?
Sonam Wangchuk has been participating in a hunger strike linked to demands raised by protesters, including concerns related to education reforms, alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, Ladakh’s autonomy and environmental protection.
According to the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), Wangchuk’s health has worsened during the protest, and the organisation claimed that he has lost nearly 9 kilograms since beginning the fast.
The protesters have also raised demands related to alleged NEET examination irregularities, including accountability from authorities and support for families affected by the issue.
Sonam Wangchuk’s Connection With 3 Idiots
Released in 2009, 3 Idiots became one of the most celebrated films in Indian cinema. The movie’s character Phunsukh Wangdu was inspired by Sonam Wangchuk’s innovative approach to education and sustainable development.
The film, directed by Rajkumar Hirani, starred Aamir Khan, R Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Boman Irani in leading roles.
Omi Vaidya’s portrayal of Chatur, a student focused on marks and traditional learning methods, became one of the most memorable performances from the film.
Beyond cinema, Sonam Wangchuk is recognised for his work in education innovation, alternative learning methods and sustainable technologies in the Himalayan region. His initiatives have earned international recognition for promoting practical education and environmental solutions.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
