‘Do You Know He May Die?’: ‘3 Idiots’ Star Omi Vaidya Urges Support for Sonam Wangchuk as Hunger Strike Enters Day 17

Actor Omi Vaidya, widely remembered for his portrayal of Chatur Ramalingam, popularly known as "Silencer", in the Bollywood blockbuster 3 Idiots, has voiced concern over the health of education reformer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, whose indefinite hunger strike has entered its 17th day.

In an emotional appeal shared on social media, Vaidya urged people to pay attention to Wangchuk's protest, warning that the activist's condition was becoming increasingly critical.

"Do you know he may die?" Vaidya said, calling on the public to stand in solidarity with Wangchuk and amplify his message.

Omi Vaidya Appeals for Public Support

Vaidya's statement has resonated widely online, with the actor highlighting Wangchuk's decades-long work in education, sustainable development and environmental conservation.

Referring to the activist as an individual who has consistently worked for the betterment of society, the actor urged citizens to support his cause before it is too late.

The appeal quickly gained traction on social media, where many users echoed concerns over Wangchuk's health and called for constructive dialogue to address his demands.

The '3 Idiots' Connection

Sonam Wangchuk is widely regarded as the real-life inspiration behind Phunsukh Wangdu, the visionary scientist portrayed by Aamir Khan in Rajkumar Hirani's 2009 film 3 Idiots.

Omi Vaidya played the memorable character Chatur "Silencer" Ramalingam, making his appeal especially significant for fans of the iconic film.

The actor said he did not want "Phunsukh Wangdu"—the character inspired by Wangchuk—to meet a tragic fate in real life.

Health Concerns Grow

Wangchuk's prolonged fast has raised concerns among supporters, doctors and political leaders.

Reports suggest the activist has lost a considerable amount of weight since beginning the hunger strike, prompting several opposition leaders to urge him to end the fast while assuring him of their support for his campaign.

Medical experts have warned that extended hunger strikes can lead to severe health complications if not monitored closely.

Political Leaders Extend Support

Wangchuk has received backing from several opposition leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal, Akhilesh Yadav, Uddhav Thackeray, Aaditya Thackeray and Mahua Moitra.

While expressing solidarity with his demands, many of them have also appealed to the activist to discontinue the hunger strike due to concerns over his deteriorating health.

The growing political support has intensified pressure for a resolution through dialogue.

What's Next?

As Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike enters its third week, the focus remains on whether the government will respond to the issues raised during the protest.

With public figures, politicians and civil society members increasingly voicing concern, attention is now shifting toward finding a solution that addresses Wangchuk's demands while ensuring his health and safety.

For many supporters, Omi Vaidya's emotional appeal has served as a reminder that the activist's protest is entering a critical phase.