Manish Goel hails Aamir Khan’s decision to release films on YouTube instead of OTT platforms: ‘Trend setter’

Actor Manish Goel recently took to Instagram to share his thoughts on Aamir Khan’s decision to release films through his production house on YouTube.

Responding to the news of Aamir Khan Productions making its films available on the platform, Goel wrote: @gaamirkhanproductions A TRUE TREND SETTER ALWAYS. So happy to hear this news because lot of OTT’s made it tough for many many producers to acquire their films and the discrimination towards actors / producers / directors and more hopefully will stop soooon. This enables every actor / producer / director to have a parallel platform and release their own stuff. Cheers to a FANTASTIC START.

Goel, who was last seen in the television show Anupamaa, highlighted the challenges independent filmmakers and actors often face when dealing with major streaming platforms. With limited access and selective acquisitions by OTT platforms, many smaller projects struggle to find visibility. The YouTube route, as introduced by Aamir Khan Productions, offers a way around these hurdles.

Aamir Khan Productions released its 2001 film Lagaan on YouTube earlier this week, making it accessible to audiences without any subscription fees. The move has sparked discussions around digital distribution and content ownership, especially at a time when many creators are seeking alternative ways to showcase their work.

For producers and directors who have faced delays or outright rejections from major platforms, YouTube provides direct access to audiences. It also allows them to retain control over their content, monetization, and release strategy. While some see this as a risk in terms of revenue, others view it as an opportunity to reach a wider, untapped audience.

Manish Goel’s statement touches on the broader conversation within the entertainment industry about inclusion, accessibility, and content gatekeeping. His comments reflect the sentiment of many who have been looking for a more open digital space where independent and small-budget projects can co-exist with mainstream releases.

Whether more production houses will follow suit remains to be seen, but Aamir Khan’s initiative has opened up a new option for content distribution.