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3 Idiots is a 2009 Bollywood film directed by Rajkumar Hirani and starring Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Sharman Joshi, and R. Madhavan. The movie is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that follows the story of three engineering students at the Imperial College of Engineering (ICE) who go through a tough and insightful journey.
The film starts with a narrator, who is searching for his friend Rancho (played by Aamir Khan), and recounts the events that led up to his disappearance. We are then introduced to Farhan (played by R. Madhavan) and Raju (played by Sharman Joshi), who are roommates at an engineering college. During their college days, they are joined by Rancho, a free-spirited student who challenges the oppressive education system and teaches the two friends to think outside the box.
The movie explores various themes, such as the pressure to conform to societal expectations, the value of education, and the importance of following one's dreams. Through Rancho's character, the film highlights the dangers of rote learning and the lack of creativity in the education system. The film also touches upon the importance of relationships, as the three friends form a strong bond and support each other through their struggles.
3 Idiots was a critical and commercial success, becoming one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of all time. The film received praise for its thought-provoking storyline and the performances of the lead actors. Aamir Khan's portrayal of Rancho was particularly well-received, with critics praising his charismatic and charming performance.
Movie Name |
3 Idiots |
Directed by |
Rajkumar Hirani |
Screenplay by |
Abhijat Joshi and Rajkumar Hirani |
Story by |
Abhijat Joshi and Rajkumar Hirani |
Produced by |
Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
Starring |
Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Kareena Kapoor, Boman Irani, and Omi Vaidya |
Cinematography |
C. K. Muraleedharan |
Edited by |
Rajkumar Hirani |
Music by |
Shantanu Moitra (Songs) Sanjay Wandrekar, Atul Raninga, and Shantanu Moitra (Score) |
Production Company |
Vinod Chopra Films |
Distributed by |
Reliance BIG Pictures |
Release Date |
25 December 2009 |
Run Time |
2 Hours 51 Minutes |
Country |
India |
Language |
Hindi |
Budget |
₹55 Crore |
The plot of the 2009 Bollywood movie 3 Idiots revolves around three friends, Rancho (played by Aamir Khan), Farhan (played by R. Madhavan) and Raju (played by Sharman Joshi), who are engineering students at a prestigious institute in India. Rancho is a quirky, eccentric, and innovative student who challenges traditional methods of teaching and encourages his friends to think outside the box.
Farhan and Raju are initially intimidated by Rancho’s unorthodox ways but eventually come to appreciate and emulate his approach to life and learning. The three friends face numerous challenges, including difficult exams, harsh professors, and strict deadlines. Despite these obstacles, they continue to support each other and have a great time together.
However, their friendship is tested when Rancho goes missing. After ten years, Farhan receives a lead from his college friend Chatur that leads him to Rancho, so he and Raju set off on a mission to find him. Along the way, they reflect on the lessons they learned from Rancho and the impact he had on their lives. The film ends on a hopeful note as the three friends are reunited, and Rancho’s impact on the world of education is celebrated.
3 Idiots was released in India on the 25th of December, 2009, with over 1550 prints and 1760 screens. Prior to the film's release, major multiplexes allotted more than 95% of their screens to it. With roughly 344 prints on 415 screens, it also had a significant international release. Trade analysts noted that the film's wide release in about 32 countries, excluding India, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, East and West Africa, Fiji, Belgium, Netherlands, Mauritius, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand, may affect the performance of James Cameron's Avatar (2009), which broke all box office records when it was released a week earlier. According to producer Vinod Chopra, a multiplex in Australia cancelled Avatar screenings in order to secure a large number of screenings for this movie.
When 3 Idiots was first released, it garnered a lot of positive reviews from both domestic and foreign critics. These reviews praised the film's directing, themes, humour, plot, script, soundtrack, and cast performances. All 13 of the critics' reviews on the review aggregate website Rotten Tomatoes are favourable.
The movie was a runaway success, breaking box office records and becoming one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of all time. Critics praised the film's witty humor and its commentary on the education system in India. They appreciated the strong performances of the lead actors, Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi, who brought depth and nuance to their characters. The film's message of pursuing one's passions, regardless of societal expectations, resonated with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Aamir Khan: Ranchhoddas Shyamaldas Chanchad (Rancho)/Phunsukh Wangdu
R. Madhavan: Farhan Qureshi
Sharman Joshi: Raju Rastogi
Kareena Kapoor: Pia Sahastrabuddhe
Boman Irani: Dr. Viru Sahastrabuddhe (Virus)
Omi Vaidya: Chatur Ramalingam (Silencer)
Rahul Kumar: Manmohan (Millimeter)
Dushyant Wagh: Older Manmohan (Centimeter)
Farida Dadi: Nuzzhat Qureshi
Parikshit Sahni: Salim Qureshi
Amardeep Jha: Suman Rastogi
Mukund Bhatt: Rajendra Rastogi
Mona Singh: Mona Sahastrabuddhe
Sanjay Lafont: Suhaas Tandon (Pia’s boyfriend)
Achyut Potdar: Machine Class Professor
Chaitali Bose: Kamini Rastogi (Kammo)
3 Idiots was directed by Rajkumar Hirani. He is a well-known Indian film director, screenwriter, and film producer. He is best known for his work, like Munna Bhai M.B.B.S., PK, Sanju, and more. Rajkumar Hirani also wrote the screenplay of the movie with Abhijat Joshi.
The producer of the film was Vidhu Vinod Chopra, who is a leading film producer and director in Bollywood. He has produced several successful films like Lage Raho Munna Bhai, Wazir, and Shikara.
The cinematographer of the film was C.K. Muraleedharan, who has won several awards for his cinematography in Indian films. He has worked on several Bollywood films and is known for his stunning visuals and camera work.
The music artist of the film was Shantanu Moitra, who is a well-known composer and lyricist in Bollywood. The music in 3 Idiots was widely appreciated and played a significant role in the success of the film.
Rancho (played by Aamir Khan): Rancho is the protagonist of the movie and is a free-spirited, imaginative, and innovative student who challenges the traditional education system. He is a source of inspiration for his friends and teaches them the importance of following their dreams.
Farhan (played by R. Madhavan): He is Rancho's best friend. Farhan's true interest is photography, but due to parental pressure, he pursues engineering. He is initially intimidated by Rancho’s unconventional approach to life. However, he learns to embrace his individuality and pursue his own passions.
Raju Rastogi (played by Sharman Joshi): Raju is a shy and hardworking student who struggles with the pressure of performing well in school. He is a loyal friend to Rancho and Farhan and learns to assert himself with their help. He loves the profession, but his fears prevent him from reaching his full ability. With Rancho's aid, he discovers his true self.
Chatur Ramalingam (played by Omi Vaidya): Chatur is an arrogant and competitive student who is determined to get ahead in life by any means necessary. He is Rancho's main antagonist and is a symbol of the traditional education system.
Pia (played by Kareena Kapoor): Pia is a strong and independent character who stands up for what she believes in. She is Rancho’slove interest and helps him on many occasions.
Dr. Viru Sahastrabuddhe (played by Boman Irani): Dr. Viru Sahastrabuddhe, also known as Virus, is the strict and oppressive Dean of the Imperial College of Engineering. He is portrayed as a symbol of the traditional Indian educational system and its flaws. He places more emphasis on grades and performance rather than creativity and critical thinking. Despite his strictness, he is respected by the students, and his character serves as an important part of the movie's message about the importance of finding one's passion and pursuing it.
Song |
Singer |
Lyricist |
All Izz Well |
Sonu Nigam, Swanand Kirkire, and Shaan |
Swanand Kirkire |
Behti Hawa Sa Tha Woh |
Shaan and Shantanu Moitra |
Swanand Kirkire |
Give Me Some Sunshine |
Suraj Jagan and Sharman Joshi |
Swanand Kirkire |
Zoobi Doobi |
Sonu Nigam and Shreya Ghoshal |
Swanand Kirkire |
Jaane Nahin Denge Tujhe |
Sonu Nigam |
Swanand Kirkire |
Author Chetan Bhagat claimed that he was not given credit for the plot of the movie 3 Idiots, which was based on his best-selling debut book Five Point Someone. In response to the author's complaints, Aamir Khan, Rajkumar Hirani, and Vidhu Vinod Chopra launched counterattacks. But eventually, Chetan Bhagat ended the issue with a blog that said "While we maintain our stance on the issue, me and my fans want to move on, and we have.”
The movie was released on around 1760 screens across India and had a phenomenal opening, collecting approximately ₹13 Crore on its first day. The film was a hit with audiences and was well-received by critics. It maintained its strong performance at the box office and went on to collect around ₹400 Crore worldwide.
In addition to its commercial success, 3 Idiots was also critically acclaimed for its unique storyline, strong performances, and socially relevant message. The film dealt with the theme of education and the importance of pursuing one's passion, which resonated with audiences.
Awards |
Category |
Recipient(s) |
Result |
Beijing International Film Festival |
Best Foreign Film |
3 Idiots |
Nominated |
Filmfare Awards |
Best Film |
Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
Won |
Filmfare Awards |
Best Director |
Rajkumar Hirani |
Won |
Filmfare Awards |
Best Dialogue |
Abhijat Joshi and Rajkumar Hirani |
Won |
Filmfare Awards |
Best Story |
Abhijat Joshi and Rajkumar Hirani |
Won |
Filmfare Awards |
Best Screenplay |
Abhijat Joshi, Rajkumar Hirani, and Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
Won |
Filmfare Awards |
Best Supporting Actor |
Boman Irani |
Won |
Filmfare Awards |
Best Supporting Actor |
R. Madhavan |
Nominated |
Filmfare Awards |
Best Supporting Actor |
Sharman Joshi |
Nominated |
Filmfare Awards |
Best Actor |
Aamir Khan |
Nominated |
Filmfare Awards |
Best Actress |
Kareena Kapoor |
Nominated |
Filmfare Awards |
Best Playback Singer (Female) |
Shreya Ghoshal (Zoobi Doobi) |
Nominated |
Global Indian Music Academy Awards |
Best Film Album |
Shantanu Moitra |
Won |
Global Indian Music Academy Awards |
Most Popular Song |
All Izz Well |
Won |
Global Indian Music Academy Awards |
Best Lyricist |
Swanand Kirkire (Behti Hawa Sa Tha Woh) |
Won |
Global Indian Music Academy Awards |
Best Male Playback Singer |
Shaan and Shantanu Moitra (Behti Hawa Sa Tha Woh) |
Won |
Global Indian Music Academy Awards |
Best Engineer |
Bishwadeep Chatterjee and Anup Dev |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Film |
Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Director |
Rajkumar Hirani |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Editing |
Rajkumar Hirani |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Actress |
Kareena Kapoor |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Supporting Actor |
Sharman Joshi |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Supporting Actor |
R. Madhavan |
Nominated |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Performance in a Negative Role |
Won |
|
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Male Debut |
Omi Vaidya |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Performance in a Comic Role |
Nominated |
|
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Lyricist |
Swanand Kirkire (Behti Hawa Sa Tha Woh) |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Male Playback Singer |
Shaan (Behti Hawa Sa Tha Woh) |
Shaan |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Male Playback Singer |
Sonu Nigam (All Izz Well) |
Nominated |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Background Score |
Sanjay Wanderkar,Atul Raninga, and Shantanu Moitra |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Story |
Abhijat Joshi, Rajkumar Hirani, and Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Screenplay |
Abhijat Joshi, Rajkumar Hirani, and Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Dialogue |
Abhijat Joshi and Rajkumar Hirani |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Cinematography |
C. K. Muraleedharan |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Sound Recording |
Bishwadeep Chatterjee and Nihal Ranjan Samel |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Sound Re-Recording |
Anup Dev |
Won |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Actor |
Aamir Khan |
Nominated |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Music Director |
Shantanu Moitra |
Nominated |
International Indian Film Academy Awards |
Best Female Playback Singer |
Shreya Ghoshal (Zoobi Doobi) |
Nominated |
Japan Academy Prize |
Best Outstanding Foreign Language Film |
3 Idiots |
Nominated |
National Film Awards |
Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment |
Rajkumar Hirani and Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
Won |
National Film Awards |
Best Lyrics |
Swanand Kirkire (Behti Hawa Sa Tha Woh) |
Won |
Producers Guild Film Awards |
Best Film |
Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
Won |
Producers Guild Film Awards |
Best Director |
Rajkumar Hirani |
Won |
Stardust Awards |
Film of the Year – Drama |
Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
Won |
Stardust Awards |
Star of the Year – Female |
Kareena Kapoor |
Won |
The Imperial College of Engineering, as depicted in the film, is actually the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore (IIMB).
Shah Rukh Khan was the initial candidate to portray Rancho; however, he was unable to do so due to scheduling conflicts.
Sonam Wangchuk, a Leh-based engineer, inspired the character Phunsukh Wangdu.
Arshad Warsi was approached about playing either Farhan or Raju.
To make the drinking sequence in the film look more believable, Aamir proposed that the actor get drunk in real life.
3 Idiots is a must-watch for anyone looking for a heartwarming and thought-provoking movie. The film is a reminder to follow one's passions and live life to the fullest. With its relatable characters and insightful commentary on the education system, 3 Idiots is a timeless classic that continues to be loved by audiences of all ages.
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