Film fraternity backs Sonam Wangchuk, urges activist to end hunger strike amid health worries
As Ladakhi educator, renowned engineer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk continues his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, several members of the film fraternity have expressed concern over his health while extending support for his movement. Actors including Soni Razdan, Shabana Azmi, Swara Bhasker, Omi Vaidya, Naseeruddin Shah, Zeenat Aman, Ratna Pathak Shah and Abhay Deol have either visited the protest site or appealed for dialogue.
Actor Soni Razdan shared an emotional message on social media, requesting Wangchuk to end his fast and prioritise his health. Posting a poem dedicated to the activist, Razdan wrote that the country still needs his leadership and urged him to “live to fight another day” by ending his hunger strike.
Another Bollywod actor Swara Bhasker personally visited Jantar Mantar to express solidarity with Wangchuk and the students participating in the protest. During her visit, she met Wangchuk and fellow protester Abhijeet. The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), associated with the protest, later shared photographs of her visit on social media, describing her support as a show of solidarity with the ongoing movement.
Veteran actor Shabana Azmi praised Wangchuk’s commitment to his cause and said the country needs voices like his. Appealing to him to call off the hunger strike, Azmi said students continue to need his guidance and urged him to stay healthy for the long struggle ahead.
Actor Omi Vaidya, who played Chatur Ramalingam in 3 Idiots, also voiced concern over Wangchuk’s health. In a video shared on social media, Vaidya said, “I don’t want Phunsukh Wangdu to die,” referring to the iconic character from 3 Idiots, which was inspired by Sonam Wangchuk’s work in education and innovation. He urged people to pay attention to the activist’s deteriorating health and understand the issues behind the protest.
Legendry actor Naseeruddin Shah also expressed support for Wangchuk while voicing concern over his health. Zeenat Aman, Ratna Pathak Shah and Abhay Deol have likewise called for meaningful dialogue and extended solidarity with the activist.
Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 28 at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. His protest highlights concerns over examination irregularities and seeks greater accountability on issues affecting students.
Despite growing health concerns, Wangchuk has continued the fast, drawing support from activists, public figures and political leaders, many of whom have appealed for dialogue while urging him to safeguard his health.