3 Idiots (2009)
DirectorRajkumar Hirani
StarringAamir Khan, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Kareena Kapoor Khan
Watch onNot on major OTT platforms in India
Best for: Viewers who enjoy Hindi comedy-dramas about friendship and college life, especially fans of Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani.
Where to watch 3 Idiots online in India
Rent
YouTubeBuy
YouTubeAvailability for India, data by JustWatch. Updated 24 October 2026.
3 Idiots Collection: all movies in order
- 3 Idiots (23 December 2009) · this movie
- 4 Idiots (release date not announced)
Listed in release order, as per TMDB's 3 Idiots Collection.
3 Idiots story (no spoilers)
Rancho arrives at India's most prestigious university with outlandish schemes that turn campus life upside down for his two new best friends. Together, the trio makes life miserable for Virus, the school's uptight and heartless dean. When Rancho catches the eye of the dean's daughter, Virus sets his sights on flunking out the three idiots once and for all. The film blends drama and comedy as Rancho's unconventional ways challenge the rigid academic system and test friendships.
Should you watch 3 Idiots?
Watch it for
- Aamir Khan leads as Rancho, with R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Boman Irani in key roles.
- Director Rajkumar Hirani balances comedy and drama in a 171-minute runtime.
- The tagline 'Aal Izz Well!' captures the film's optimistic tone.
- It is the first film in the 3 Idiots Collection, followed by the announced 4 Idiots.
Skip it if
- The 171-minute runtime may feel long if you prefer shorter films.
- The college-setting comedy-drama may not appeal if you want pure action or thriller.
- You might find the portrayal of campus life too lighthearted for serious academic drama.
3 Idiots cast
Aamir Khanas Ranchoddas "Rancho" Chanchad
R. Madhavanas Farhan Qureshi
Sharman Joshias Raju Rastogi
Kareena Kapoor Khanas Pia Sahastrabudhhe
Boman Iranias Viru "Virus" Sahastrabudhhe
Omi Vaidyaas Chatur "Silencer" Ramalingam
Mona Singhas Mona Sahastrabuddhe
Rahul Kumaras Millimeter
Parikshat Sahnias Mr. Qureshi
Farida Dadias Mrs. Qureshi
Amardeep Jhaas Mrs. Rastogi3 Idiots movie details
| Director | Rajkumar Hirani |
|---|---|
| Writer | Rajkumar Hirani, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Abhijat Joshi |
| Music | Shantanu Moitra, Sanjay Wandrekar, Atul Raninga |
| Cinematography | C.K. Muraleedharan |
| Producer | Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
| Release date | 23 December 2009 |
| Runtime | 2h 51m (171 minutes) |
| Original language | Hindi |
| Country of origin | India |
| Languages spoken in the film | Hindi, English |
| Certificate (India) | UA |
| Budget | $50.0 million (approx.) |
| Worldwide box office | $60.3 million (approx.) |
Parental guide: is 3 Idiots family friendly?
This is a general guide based on the UA certificate and genre; the film is a comedy-drama with mild themes. This is a general guide based on genre and certification.
3 Idiots official trailer
Our verdict
3 Idiots pairs Aamir Khan with director Rajkumar Hirani for a comedy-drama about friendship and nonconformity in college. The 171-minute runtime gives room for the campus conflict and Rancho's clash with Dean Virus to unfold. It is a solid pick if you like Hindi films that mix humour with drama.
More movies directed by Rajkumar Hirani
Dunki
PK
Lage Raho Munna BhaiMore Aamir Khan movies
Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos
Coolie
Sitaare Zameen Par
Laal Singh Chaddha
Thugs of Hindostan
Secret SuperstarFrequently asked questions
Where can I watch 3 Idiots online in India?
3 Idiots is available for rent or purchase on YouTube in India. It is not currently listed on major Indian OTT platforms for free streaming.
When was 3 Idiots released?
3 Idiots was released on 23 December 2009, with a theatrical release in India on 25 December 2009.
Who is in the cast of 3 Idiots?
The cast includes Aamir Khan as Rancho, R. Madhavan as Farhan Qureshi, Sharman Joshi as Raju Rastogi, Kareena Kapoor Khan as Pia Sahastrabudhhe, and Boman Irani as Virus.
Who directed 3 Idiots?
3 Idiots was directed by Rajkumar Hirani.
What is the runtime and certificate of 3 Idiots?
3 Idiots has a runtime of 171 minutes and holds a UA certificate in India.
Page last updated 24 October 2026. Facts from TMDB; how we write these pages: editorial policy.