‘Just like 'Gandhi' film not based on Mahatama’: Aamir Khan faces political backlash for remarks on Sonam Wangchuk

Aamir Khan faces sharp criticism after distancing his 2009 film 3 Idiots from social activist Sonam Wangchuk. During an event at the London Indian Film Festival, Khan stated that he and the creative team behind the film were not familiar with Wangchuk at the time of production. This clarification contradicts the widespread public belief that the character Phunsukh Wangdu was inspired by the educator and innovator.

Following the remarks, political figures were quick to attack the actor. RJD MP Manoj Jha questioned the timing of the statement, suggesting that the public admission reflects a lack of courage to stand against the current state administration. Other politicians, including AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, accused Khan of bowing to political pressure and avoiding controversial stances to protect his own interests.

Activist Prashant Bhushan joined the chorus of detractors, calling the actor a pale shadow of the person who once produced films rooted in social change. Former Congress leader Sanjay Jha drew a historical parallel, comparing Khan’s disclaimer to the historical inaccuracy of the 1982 film Gandhi. The backlash highlights the heightened sensitivity surrounding Sonam Wangchuk, who is currently on day 20 of an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. Wangchuk is demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination process.

In his response at the festival, Khan expressed concern for Wangchuk’s deteriorating health. He stated that the activist does great work regardless of any film connections and that he hopes for a positive resolution to the hunger strike. Despite these well wishes, the reaction from critics suggests that the actor’s attempt to clarify creative inspiration has been interpreted by many as an abandonment of a figure currently viewed as a symbol of protest.