For many Indians, Sonam Wangchuk is the real-life inspiration behind the character of Phunsukh Wangdu in 3 Idiots. But his story goes far beyond cinema. From transforming education in Ladakh and developing the world-famous Ice Stupa project to becoming the most prominent face of Ladakh’s movement for constitutional safeguards, Wangchuk’s journey has spanned education, climate action and activism. This explainer traces how an engineer and educator became one of India’s most influential public voices on Ladakh’s future.

Published - July 17, 2026 12:29 am IST