Aamir Khan’s game-changing move: 'Sitaare Zameen Par' skips OTT for YouTube release with a twist

At a recent media gathering, Aamir Khan made a groundbreaking announcement that has the entertainment industry buzzing. The superstar revealed that his latest theatrical hit Sitaare Zameen Par will now be released on YouTube via a pay-per-view model starting August 1, 2025. Viewers across the world will be able to rent the film and watch it at their convenience, an innovative step that could potentially redefine film distribution in India and beyond.

The idea behind this move is simple but revolutionary: to make cinema more accessible, both geographically and financially. Speaking at the event, Aamir shared that for over a decade, he has been searching for a way to reach audiences who don’t have access to theatres or the means to visit them regularly. With rising internet usage, widespread digital payments, and YouTube’s global reach, the actor believes now is the perfect time to bring cinema into every home.

The film, a spiritual successor to his 2007 classic Taare Zameen Par, has already won hearts in theatres and earned over Rs 250 crore globally. A touching family drama celebrating inclusivity, Sitaare Zameen Par stars Aamir Khan, Genelia Deshmukh, and introduces ten talented actors with intellectual disabilities. Now, with its digital release, the film will be available in India at just Rs 100 and in 38 other countries with region-specific pricing.

This marks a significant shift from traditional OTT releases. Unlike a subscription model, viewers can rent Sitaare Zameen Par directly on YouTube Movies, giving them control over what to watch and when, without additional app downloads or platform commitments.

The reaction to this announcement has been largely positive. Industry insiders have praised Aamir’s bold step, calling it a “game-changer” for filmmakers and audiences alike. YouTube India’s Country MD Gunjan Soni added that this partnership sets the stage for Indian cinema to travel globally with greater ease and inclusivity.

As Aamir prepares for his upcoming productions like Lahore 1947 and Ek Din, his latest experiment with Sitaare Zameen Par could pave the way for more filmmakers to think outside the box, or rather, beyond the theatre.