Several members of the Indian film industry have voiced support for Ladakhi educator and activist Sonam Wangchuk as his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar continues.
According to Hindustan Times, celebrities including Zeenat Aman, Omi Vaidya, Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah and Abhay Deol have called for dialogue while expressing concern over Wangchuk’s health.
Veteran actors Soni Razdan and Shabana Azmi have appealed to Wangchuk to end his fast, saying his voice and leadership remain vital to the movement. Actor Swara Bhasker also visited the protest site to express her solidarity.
Soni Razdan shared an emotional message on Instagram urging Wangchuk to prioritise his health. Posting a poem dedicated to the activist, she 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 visited Jantar Mantar, where she met Wangchuk and fellow protester Abhijeet. She expressed support for their ongoing movement. The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), which is associated with the protest, shared photographs from her visit on Instagram and wrote: “Unapologetic & fearless actress Swara Bhaskar Joins the protest at Jantar Mantar!”
Shabana Azmi praised Wangchuk’s commitment, describing him as a voice for truth and justice. She said the country needs people like him and added, “Humein aap par garv hain.” Azmi also urged him to end his hunger strike, saying students still need his guidance and that he must remain healthy for the long struggle ahead.
Actor Omi Vaidya, best known for portraying Chatur Ramalingam, also known as Silencer, in 3 Idiots, shared a video expressing concern over Wangchuk’s condition. He urged people to pay attention to the activist’s health and said, “I don’t want Phunsukh Phunsukh Wangdu to die.” The remark referred to the 3 Idiots character Phunsukh Wangdu, which was inspired by Wangchuk’s work in education and innovation.
Naseeruddin Shah has also expressed support for Wangchuk while voicing concern about his health. Zeenat Aman, Ratna Pathak Shah and Abhay Deol have likewise backed the activist and called for meaningful dialogue.
Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on 28 June, raising concerns over examination irregularities and demanding accountability on issues affecting students. He has continued the protest despite reports of severe weakness and muscle loss caused by prolonged fasting.
The movement has drawn support from activists, politicians and public figures, many of whom have called for dialogue while urging Wangchuk to safeguard his health.
