As Ladakhi educator and activist Sonam Wangchuk’s indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar continues, several members of the film fraternity have come forward to express solidarity and raise concerns over his health. While veteran actors including Soni Razdan and Shabana Azmi have urged Wangchuk to end his fast, saying his voice and leadership are important for the movement, Swara Bhasker also visited the protest site to extend her support.
Meanwhile, celebrities including Zeenat Aman, Omi Vaidya, Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah and Abhay Deol have spoken in support of dialogue and expressed concern over Wangchuk’s condition.
Soni Razdan’s Emotional Appeal
Actor Soni Razdan, known for films like Raazi and 36 Chowringhee Lane, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram requesting Wangchuk to prioritise his health and end his hunger strike.
Sharing a poem dedicated to the activist, Razdan wrote, “Dear Sonam Wangchuk, For your health, we all do pray. Please do not leave us in this way. Please live to fight another day. Please stay. Please end your fast today.”
Swara Bhasker Visits Jantar Mantar
While several celebrities extended their support online, actor Swara Bhasker personally visited the protest site at Jantar Mantar to stand with Wangchuk and the protesting students. During her visit, Swara met Wangchuk and fellow protester Abhijeet, expressing solidarity with their ongoing movement.
The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), which is associated with the protest, shared pictures from Swara’s visit on Instagram and wrote, “Unapologetic & fearless actress Swara Bhaskar Joins the protest at Jantar Mantar!”
Shabana Azmi Says Country Needs Sonam Wangchuk
Veteran actor Shabana Azmi also extended her support to Wangchuk and praised his commitment to his cause. Calling him a voice for truth and justice, Azmi said that the country needs people like him and expressed pride in his efforts.
Addressing the activist, she said, “Humein aap par garv hain.”
She also appealed to Wangchuk to end his hunger strike, saying that students still need his guidance and that he must remain healthy for the long fight ahead.
Omi Vaidya Expresses Concern
Actor Omi Vaidya, best known for playing Chatur Ramalingam, also known as Silencer, in 3 Idiots, shared a video expressing concern over Wangchuk’s health.
On social media, Vaidya urged people to pay attention to the activist’s condition amid his ongoing hunger strike. In the video, he said, “I don’t want Phunsukh Phunsukh Wangdu to die.”
The reference was to the character Phunsukh Wangdu from 3 Idiots, which was inspired by Sonam Wangchuk’s real-life work in education and innovation.
Naseeruddin Shah And Other Celebrities Too Extend Support
Actor Naseeruddin Shah has also voiced his support for Sonam Wangchuk, praising his dedication while expressing concern about his health. Other celebrities, including Zeenat Aman, Ratna Pathak Shah and Abhay Deol, have also expressed solidarity with Wangchuk and called for meaningful dialogue.
Why Is Sonam Wangchuk On Hunger Strike?
Sonam Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on June 28, raising concerns related to examination irregularities and demanding accountability over issues affecting students. The activist has continued his protest despite health concerns, including reports of severe weakness and muscle loss after prolonged fasting.
His protest has received support from activists, politicians and public figures, with many urging dialogue while also appealing to Wangchuk to protect his health.
