The movie is set in the 1980s and follows the story of three friends, Rancho (Aamir Khan), Farhan (R. Madhavan), and Raju (Sharman Joshi), who are engineering students at the fictional Government College of Engineering, Sardar Patel University (GCE, SPU) in the state of Gujarat. The story revolves around their friendship, their approach to education, and how they challenge the traditional and rigid educational system. The narrative is presented through a flashback, as Rancho narrates his story to a journalist.

Few films in the history of Indian cinema have achieved the cultural saturation of 3 Idiots . Released in 2009, starring Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi, the film continues to resonate with students, parents, and educators alike. Its sharp critique of the education system, combined with unforgettable humor and heartbreak, ensures that new generations discover it every day.