There are only a handful of films that stay with us as we grow up—films that continue to inspire us or resonate with our lives, films we never grow tired of revisiting. For most of us, "3 Idiots" is one such film. 

Around 15 years ago, it arrived in cinemas and forever changed the way we viewed education, success, and friendship. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani and featuring Aamir Khan, R Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi, "3 Idiots" tells the story of three engineering students grappling with the pressures of academia, family expectations, and their own dreams. At its core, it is a tale of friendship, rebellion, and the importance of staying true to oneself. More than just a comedy or drama, it became a cultural phenomenon—one that continues to resonate today. 

The film centres on three friends—Rancho, Farhan, and Raju—navigating a rigid and often stifling educational system. Rancho, a free-spirited and unconventional thinker, inspires his friends to question the status quo, follow their passions, and think beyond grades. His "All is well" mantra became, for me, a symbol of hope and resilience in a world often demanding perfection. 

Yet, the film's enduring appeal is not just in its humour or emotional depth but in the universal truth it conveys: success is not measured by marks or titles but by the joy of learning and the courage to follow our hearts. 

Two and a half decades ago, I saw Rancho as a hero, Farhan and Raju as the friends I wished I had, and Virus as the villain I loved to hate. Today, as a university student navigating the same labyrinth of dreams and expectations, I view the film differently. Its themes, characters, and journey now feel deeply personal—not just because of the struggles it portrays but because of how closely it mirrors the internal battles many of us face.  

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One of the central themes of "3 Idiots" is the crippling effect of expectations. The pressure to conform, the relentless pursuit of grades, and the belief that success is defined solely by societal standards are woven into the narrative. Like Farhan, many of us have been told what to do, who to become, and how to live. The weight of familial, societal, and self-imposed expectations can be suffocating. 

"3 Idiots" made us question whether the path we are on is truly ours to walk. Farhan's decision to pursue his passion for wildlife photography, defying his father's wishes, is a turning point—not just in the film but in the hearts of its viewers. It speaks to a universal struggle: the choice between following a dream and fulfilling the expectations of those we love.  

We all have a Farhan moment in our lives—a crossroads where we must decide whether to continue down the path others have paved for us or to dare to follow our own. For me, the idea of living life on my own terms has always been profound. Over the years, I've often returned to the mantra "All is well." These simple yet profound words serve as a reminder that everything will be okay, even when life feels out of control. It's not a promise of perfection but a shield against despair.  

Life is messy, unpredictable, and often unfair. Yet, it is also beautiful, filled with laughter, love, and second chances—if we have the courage to see them. "3 Idiots" taught me that success is not about accolades or grades; it is about authenticity, learning for its own sake, and embracing joy in every step of the journey.  

Another profound lesson from "3 Idiots" is the importance of letting go of fear. Raju, burdened by poverty, family expectations, and self-doubt, is haunted by the fear of failure. By the end of the film, he learns that true success is not about avoiding failure but about confronting fears and pursuing what we love, no matter the obstacles. Raju's story teaches us that failure is not a reflection of our worth but a necessary step in the journey to success.  

The film also celebrates the courage to question authority and challenge conventions. Rancho's insistence on understanding concepts rather than rote memorisation and his determination to find practical, meaningful solutions resonate deeply. Like him, I believe knowledge extends beyond textbooks and lies in the questions we dare to ask and the experiences we embrace.

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At its heart, "3 Idiots" is also about friendship—the bonds that sustain us through life's struggles and the support we offer each other when times are tough. Rancho, Farhan, and Raju exemplify how true friends shape and uplift one another. Whether facing individual challenges or celebrating shared victories, their camaraderie is a reminder of the irreplaceable value of having someone by your side. In a world that often pits us against one another, the film reminds us that life is not about being the best but about being there for one another. 

Ultimately, "3 Idiots" is a timeless ode to living authentically. It reminds us that life is not a race but a journey—a path where we follow our hearts, find our true calling, and embrace the unknown with courage. Baba Ranchoddas will always remind us to laugh, to learn, and to live a life that is truly our own.