Actor Omi Vaidya, best known for playing Chatur Ramalingam in 3 Idiots, has publicly expressed support for educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. Through a video shared on social media, Vaidya urged people to take note of Wangchuk’s deteriorating health while reminding viewers that Aamir Khan’s character Phunsukh Wangdu in the 2009 blockbuster was inspired by the Ladakh-based innovator.

Omi Vaidya shares emotional message

In the video, Vaidya introduced himself before making an emotional appeal to the public.

“I don’t want Phunsukh Wangdu to die. Hello idiots, pehchana? This is Omi Vaidya, Chatur from ‘3 Idiots’ and Sadiq from ‘The Office’, and I have an important message for you. I don’t really do this very often, so please listen up.”

He then spoke about the inspiration behind one of Bollywood’s most iconic characters.

“Did you know that Phunsukh Wangdu from ‘3 Idiots’ is actually based on a real-life Ladakhi engineer, innovator, educator and reformer named Sonam Wangchuk? I’ve met this guy. He’s a pretty interesting character.”

Describing Wangchuk as a “humble” and “a pretty impressive person,” the actor also raised concerns over his current health condition.

“Right now he is on a very long hunger strike. His blood sugar has gone down very much. I don’t know if you’ve heard about this. I don’t know if the media is reporting this. But this is a pretty important thing.”

Vaidya concluded his appeal by saying, “Whether you agree with him or not, I don’t really want this guy to die.”

Sonam Wangchuk’s protest and health update

According to the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), Wangchuk’s health has worsened during the ongoing fast. The organisation claimed that he has lost nearly 9 kg since joining the protest.

The activist is participating in the demonstration over alleged NEET examination irregularities while also highlighting issues related to education, Ladakh’s autonomy and environmental protection.

Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk Continues Hunger Strike in Support of CJP Campaign at Jantar Mantar
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Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk Continues Hunger Strike in Support of CJP Campaign at Jantar Mantar | ANI

Among the key demands raised during the protest are the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and compensation for the families of NEET aspirants who allegedly died by suicide. CJP has also announced a peaceful march to Parliament on July 20 during the Monsoon Session.

Prashant Bhushan reacts to Vaidya’s video

Lawyer and activist Prashant Bhushan also shared Vaidya’s video on X and questioned whether actor Aamir Khan would respond.

“At least 1 character from Aamir Khan’s film ‘3 Idiots’ has come out in support of Sonam Wangchuk (the inspiration behind the Aamir Khan character) who is on fast at Jantar Mantar for 17 days, seeking the resignation of Education Minister Pradhan. Waiting to see what Aamir Khan does (sic)?”

Omi Vaidya’s memorable role in 3 Idiots

Omi Vaidya remains widely recognised for his portrayal of Chatur Ramalingam in Rajkumar Hirani’s 3 Idiots. Besides the blockbuster, he has appeared in films including Dil To Baccha Hai Ji, Players, Jodi Breakers and Desi Boyz. His latest video message has drawn fresh attention on social media as discussions around Sonam Wangchuk’s protest continue.

FAQs:

Why is Sonam Wangchuk on a hunger strike?

Sonam Wangchuk is protesting over alleged NEET irregularities while raising concerns about education, Ladakh’s autonomy and environmental issues.

Why did Omi Vaidya support Sonam Wangchuk?

Omi Vaidya said he was concerned about Wangchuk’s deteriorating health and reminded people that the activist inspired Phunsukh Wangdu in 3 Idiots.