Aamir Khan says Amitabh Bachchan’s reaffirmation pushed him to take the biggest risk with 'Sitaare Zameen Par'

In an exclusive interaction with India Forums, actor-producer Aamir Khan opened up about the unconventional release strategy of his upcoming film Sitara Zameen Par. At a time when most big-budget films secure OTT deals either before or shortly after theatrical releases, Khan has chosen to go against the tide, opting for a strictly theatrical release.

The actor addressed the industry buzz around this decision and confirmed that Sitara Zameen Par will not have an OTT release, a move that has raised several eyebrows. “I don’t believe in this OTT model and having your film release on OTT after just 8 weeks of theatrical release,” Khan said, stating his clear stance.

However, he admitted that the choice was not easy and came with its share of doubts and pressures. “Industry dictates in a certain way,” Khan acknowledged, adding that even those close to him questioned the business viability of the move. He noted that pre-sale revenue from OTT deals often plays a crucial role in determining a film’s financial performance.

The actor confessed that the mounting skepticism led him to question his own conviction. But it was a conversation with veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan that ultimately helped him find clarity.

Khan recounted a dinner meeting that took place after he appeared on Kaun Banega Crorepati alongside his son Junaid Khan, during promotions for Loveyappa.

Amit ji responded that you should definitely do it and you certainly are the only person who can do it.

- Aamir Khan on 'Sitaare Zameen Par's release dilemma

He said, “I had gone for the shoot of an episode of KBC, as one knows, with Junaid Khan during the promotions of Loveyappa. That is where one would remember that I went on to answer like 5-6 questions when there was this option of getting dinner with Amitabh Bachchan. So, we won that and what followed is that after the shoot, Junaid, me and Amitabh — Junaid and I went at Amitabh’s place and we sat together for dinner. And when we were talking about several things, me being me, went on to talk to him about my own problems and talk to him about my own thoughts regarding Sitare Zameen Par.”

Khan continued, “I told him that I am really questioning and I am really being questioned for my decision to opt for an only theatrical release for Sitare Zameen Par. And I am also wondering if I should do it or not. But Amit ji responded that you should definitely do it and you certainly are the only person who can do it. Because you have never been a person who takes practical decisions as per industry beliefs and you have always been a risk taker. So, do it if you firmly believe in it.”

It was this reassurance, Khan revealed, that helped him stand by his decision, reaffirming his belief in theatrical cinema despite the risks involved.