Remember the iconic film ‘3 Idiots’… the 2009 film that had the youngsters trippin’ on idealism, truth and friendship… The film was a blockbuster and everybody heralded this revolutionary cinematic wonder that was so starkly different from the other ‘dhak dhak‘ masala films that Bollywood was known for But did you know Aamir Khan’s character Phunsukh Wangdu was based on Ladakh’s maverick innovator, educationist and activist Sonam Wangchuk?
It’s sad but true… Not too many people know about Sonam Wangchuk. And why should they? No history book has bothered to document this genius’s vision. 3 Idiots was a runaway hit but the man Sonam Wangchuk was still shrouded in anonymity… a name hidden in obscurity, gathering dust in a tiny village in Ladakh, even though he won two major Global awards.
In fact, Wangchuk was recently in the news for fasting for 21 days to ‘Save Ladakh’. It was a protest against climate change, Save the Himalayas, environmental woes and government apathy. Did it make a difference? Sumita Chakraborty, Editor-in-chief, TheGlitz, profiles the innovator, environmentalist and educationist, every Indian needs to know about – Sonam Wangchuk!
So who is Sonam Wangchuk?
57-year-old Sonam Wangchuk is a visionary engineer, innovator, and educator hailed for his transformative contributions to sustainable development and education in the Himalayan region. Born in the mountainous terrain of Ladakh, India, Sonam Wangchuk has dedicated his life to addressing the challenges faced by communities in the high-altitude regions.
More About The Man
He was homeschooled by his mother as there were no schools in the hard mountainous terrain where he stayed. After he finished his schooling, his father wanted him to become a civil engineer but Sonam opted for mechanical engineering. Infuriated by his choice, Sonam’s father refused to support his further edition. Sonam, however, tackled challenges his way – he became a tutor and took tuition of 10 standard students to finance his further education in mechanical engineering at NIT Srinagar.
Ice Stupa
One of Wangchuk’s most notable achievements is the invention of the “Ice Stupa” technology. Concerned about the water scarcity faced by farmers in Ladakh due to melting glaciers, Wangchuk devised a brilliant solution inspired by the traditional concept of building stupas. The Ice Stupa is an artificial glacier that stores winter runoff water in the form of ice, which gradually melts during the spring and summer months, providing a reliable water source for irrigation.
Wangchuk’s innovative approach to water conservation has garnered international acclaim and has been replicated in various mountainous regions around the world facing similar water challenges. His work has not only helped alleviate water scarcity but has also empowered local communities to adapt to climate change and sustain their livelihoods.
SECMOL
In addition to his environmental efforts, Sonam Wangchuk is a passionate advocate for education reform. He is the founder of the Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), an organization dedicated to improving the quality of education in Ladakh and fostering a culture of innovation and creativity among students. Under Wangchuk’s leadership, SECMOL has pioneered alternative teaching methods, including the use of solar-powered classrooms and hands-on learning experiences, to make education more accessible and engaging for students in remote Himalayan villages.
Sonam has also invented special heater tents for the Indian army to survive in minus zero-degree temperatures.
Awards But No Recognition
Sonam Wangchuk’s remarkable achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Rolex Award for Enterprise and the Ramon Magsaysay Award, often referred to as Asia’s Nobel Prize. Through his innovative solutions and unwavering commitment to social change, Wangchuk continues to inspire and empower communities in the Himalayas and beyond, leaving a lasting legacy of hope and progress for future generations.
Quote
“Don’t blame the child for forgetting lessons; make the lessons unforgettable. I believe that education should be about healing the earth and dealing with the crises that we are in. We need to explore our own deserts and land, which need to be healed and managed on the planet itself.”
Sonam Wangchuk
HAPPY EARTH DAY… #SaveLadakh
Sonam Wangchuk
This time we celebrated in Tarchid village where Ice Stupa artificial glaciers awards were also announced.
Earlier today I got back to this moonland after a wonderful day in Bangaluru where I attended Foundation Day of@log9materials who make energy solutions in India for India. We’re exploring energy collaborations for Ladakh. I also met many ‘friends of Ladakh’ at Freedom Park… Spoke & sang few songs including the National Anthem. Thank you all for all your support 🙏
