Delhi ‘padyatra’ of Sonam Wangchuk, who inspired Aamir Khan’s role in ‘3 Idiots’, reaches Kullu

 Innovator-educationist hails overwhelming response in Himachal Pradesh

DHARAMSHALA: Sonam Wangchuk, the engineer and innovator who inspired Bollywood star Aamir Khan’s character in ‘3 Idiots’, is on a determined mission to safeguard Ladakh and the Himalayan region.

Currently on a padyatra from Leh to Delhi, Wangchuk reached Kullu on Wednesday afternoon where he acknowledged the overwhelming support from the people of Himachal Pradesh. “The padyatra is deeply connected to the sentiments of the people and it’s heartening to see such extensive support from the region,” Wangchuk remarked during his interaction in Manali.

Ladakh statehood among key demands

Wangchuk’s journey, which will culminate in Delhi on October 2, aims to draw attention to critical environmental and political issues impacting Ladakh and the broader Himalayan region. His key demands include granting statehood to Ladakh, implementing the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to protect Ladakh’s land and cultural identity and increasing the region’s representation in the Lok Sabha with two seats.

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As Wangchuk continues to meet local residents along his journey, he emphasised the importance of collective efforts in pushing the central government to address these concerns. Earlier in March, the environmentalist undertook a 21-day hunger strike to further press for these demands, particularly focusing on the ecological preservation of the Himalayan region.

Protest inspired by Gandhian principles

Wangchuk’s padyatra, inspired by Gandhian principles of peaceful protest, has sparked widespread support not only in Ladakh but also across Himachal Pradesh, reflecting the growing concern over the fragile ecology of the Himalayas and the need for stronger protections for the local communities.