Omi Vaidya, recognized for playing the competitive student Chatur Ramalingam in the 2009 film 3 Idiots, has raised alarm about education reformer Sonam Wangchuk’s condition during an ongoing hunger strike. Vaidya shared a video on social media to urge public attention to the protest.
In the recording, Vaidya stated he does not want the real individual behind a movie character to perish. He introduced himself as the performer of Chatur and another role, noting he seldom issues such messages and asked viewers to listen.
Wangchuk, a Ladakhi engineer and innovator, has lost significant weight and faces health decline while fasting against alleged NEET exam flaws. The action also addresses education standards, regional autonomy for Ladakh, and environmental safeguards. Protesters seek the education minister’s resignation plus support for families of affected students.
Vaidya recalled that the film’s inventor character drew inspiration from Wangchuk, whom he has met. He highlighted the lowered blood sugar levels and stressed the need to focus on the issues even without full agreement.
The Cockroach Janta Party plans a peaceful march to parliament later this month. The movie 3 Idiots, directed by Rajkumar Hirani, featured Vaidya’s memorable performance alongside other lead actors and remains a landmark in Indian cinema.
