Mumbai, July 21: The Rajkumar Hirani-directed blockbuster 3 Idiots is set for a theatrical re-release on September 4, 2026, nearly 17 years after its original debut, as renewed public interest surrounding social activist Sonam Wangchuk brings the film back into the spotlight.

The renewed attention comes amid ongoing protests over the alleged NEET paper leak, with demonstrators demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Wangchuk, who has launched an indefinite hunger strike, has also expressed support for the protests.

The developments have reignited discussions about the long-standing claim that Aamir Khan's character in 3 Idiots was inspired by Wangchuk's life. However, Aamir recently clarified in an interview that his character was not based on the education reformer.

According to reports, NH Studio, which has acquired the rights to Vidhu Vinod Chopra's film as part of its catalogue, will handle the film's theatrical re-release.

Originally released on December 25, 2009, 3 Idiots follows the journey of three engineering students and remains one of Bollywood's most celebrated coming-of-age dramas. The film was directed by Rajkumar Hirani and produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, starring Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan and Sharman Joshi in the lead roles, alongside Kareena Kapoor Khan, Boman Irani, Omi Vaidya, Parikshit Sahni and Mona Singh.

Produced on an estimated budget of ₹55 crore, 3 Idiots emerged as a blockbuster at the global box office, earning close to ₹400 crore worldwide.