3 Idiots Re-Release Rumour Faces Backlash Amid Sonam Wangchuk Hunger Strike: Tone-Deaf, Insensitive

Rajkumar

Hirani-directed 3 Idiots stood tall as one of the best films made in India. The movie released in 2009 and became a cult classic. Aamir Khan, R Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Kareena Kapoor, Boman Irani and Mona Singh brought the iconic characters to life. Now, amid chatter around its sequel going on floors in the coming months, NH Studioz acquired the rights of the Vidhu Vinod Chopra-produced socio-drama. 3 Idiots is reportedly re-releasing in theatres on September 4. While the news should have brought cheer among fans, the makers are facing backlash for their strategic re-release plan.

3 Idiots re-release faces opposition

The news of 3 Idiots’ re-release faced extreme opposition on social media. The internet connected its timeline with the ongoing protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. Sonam Wangchuk, who is one of the pioneers of the indefinite hunger strike demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan after the NEET paper leak fiasco, was believed to be the inspiration behind Aamir’s Rancho or Phunsukh Wangdu.

Is 3 Idiots based on Sonam Wangchuk?

When 3 Idiots released, reports claimed that the film was based on his work and contribution towards the education system in Ladakh. Recently, Aamir denied the claim and said he did not know about Wangchuk during the making of 3 Idiots. Contrary to his statement, the internet dug out a video where Sonam and Aamir were seen together. The former said in the video that he discussed a film based on Siachen unrest with the actor in 2008. According to the activist, Aamir listened to his idea ‘keenly.’In the video, Wangchuk further shared that the makers of 3 Idiots had visited his school in Ladakh for the shoot, but they were not granted permission because of the plastic material they had to bring along. The school was shown, but the shoot took place at a nearby location, as per the education reformer and environmentalist.

Omi Vaidya claims 3 Idiots is based on Sonam Wangchuk

Omi Vaidya, who played the role of Chatur in 3 Idiots, was among the first celebrities to stand in solidarity with Wangchuk. In his Instagram video, the actor said he does not want ‘Phunsukh Wangdu’ to die. Aamir, during an interaction at the British Film Institute (BFI) for 25 years of Lagaan, claimed that his character wasn’t based on Sonam.

Aamir Khan's denial

“No, that’s not true, actually. That is a misconception. I didn’t know about Mr Sonam Wangchuk at that time when we were doing the film. I know that, I saw a video of Chatur, just recently he said that… No, he’s wrong. Maybe that’s what Chatur was thinking but I want to tell you neither did Raju, nor Abhijat (one of the two writers), nor I, we didn’t know about Sonam. However, what Mr Sonam is doing is good work anyway. He doesn’t need to be based on the character of 3 Idiots for us to respect him and the work he’s done,” Aamir said.

Netizens react to 3 Idiots re-release

Amid the confusion regarding Sonam’s contribution to 3 Idiots, the re-release has sparked controversy. The internet criticised the makers for the decision and called for a ban. “Tone-deaf,” said one, whereas another person tweeted, “Don’t watch it. Have some self-respect: don’t let them make money out of your nostalgia.” One called it an ‘insensitive move’. “One of my favourite movies. But NO,” said one netizen.

The rumour of 3 Idiots’ release is based on a Bollywood Hungama report. Rajkumar Hirani, Vidhu Vinod Chopra and the cast of the film have not spoken about it officially. DISCLAIMER: The article is a compilation of thoughts posted by netizens and satire doing the rounds on the subject. Ideas expressed do not reflect the view of Times Network.