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Aamir Khan Rejects Sonam Wangchuk as 3 Idiots Inspiration

7/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Aamir Khan denied that engineer Sonam Wangchuk inspired the Rancho character in the 2009 film *3 Idiots*.
Producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra said in 2014 the character was based on his own life.
Director Rajkumar Hirani said the role drew on a former FTII student and other real-life incidents.
Sonam Wangchuk said the makers were never consulted during development and he has distanced himself from the role.

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Story summary

Aamir Khan denied that engineer Sonam Wangchuk inspired the Rancho character in the 2009 film *3 Idiots*.
Producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra said in 2014 the character was based on his own life.
Director Rajkumar Hirani said the role drew on a former FTII student and other real-life incidents.
Sonam Wangchuk said the makers were never consulted during development and he has distanced himself from the role.