actor Omi Vaidyaremembered by millions as Chatur from ‘3 Idiots’, has voiced his support for the educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchukwho is currently on an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. Through an emotional video message, the actor appealed to the public to pay attention to Wangchuk’s declining health while reminding everyone that Aamir Khan’s iconic character Phunsukh Wangdu was inspired by the activist.
Omi Vaidya’s emotional appeal to Phunsukh Wangdu
Sharing a heartfelt video on social media, Vaidya introduced herself before making an impassioned plea to the audience.“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 that very often, so please listen.” He went on to explain the real-life inspiration behind one of Bollywood’s most beloved 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 quite an interesting character.” Calling Wangchuk “humble” and “a pretty impressive person,” the actor highlighted his contributions before expressing concern for his health.“He’s on a very long hunger strike right now. His blood sugar is really low. I don’t know if you’ve heard about it. I don’t know if the media is reporting it. But this is pretty important.”Vaidya further said that regardless of differing opinions, he hoped people would understand the gravity of the situation. “Whether you agree with him or not, I really don’t want this guy to die.”
Protests continue as health concerns grow
According to the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), Sonam Wangchuk’s health has deteriorated during the fast, with the organization claiming that she has lost nearly 9kg since joining the protest. Wangchuk has participated in the demonstration over alleged irregularities in the NEET exams, while also raising concerns related to education, Ladakh autonomy and environmental issues.The protest has demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan along with compensation for the families of the NEET aspirants who allegedly committed suicide. CJP has also announced a peaceful march in Parliament on July 20 during the monsoon session.
Prashant Bhushan joins the conversation
Activist and lawyer Prashant Bhushan amplified Vaidya’s message by re-sharing the actor’s video on X.“At least 1 character from Aamir Khan’s film ‘3 Idiots’ has come out in support of Sonam Wangchuk (the inspiration behind Aamir Khan’s character) who is on a fast at Jantar Mantar for 17 days, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Pradhan. Waiting to see what Aamir Khan (sic) does?”
Omi Vaidya’s work front
On the professional front, Omi Vaidya continues to be recognized for his memorable performance as Chatur Ramalingam in Rajkumar Hirani’s ‘3 Idiots’. Apart from the blockbuster, he has appeared in films like ‘Dil To Baccha Hai Ji’, ‘Players’, ‘Jodi Breakers’ and ‘Desi Boyz’. His recent call for Sonam Wangchuk has put the actor back in the limelight, with the video garnering significant attention on social media platforms.