Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan is once again set to bring an emotionally stirring narrative to the big screen with his upcoming film ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’, but in a move that has surprised many in the industry, the actor-producer has confirmed that the film will not release on any OTT platforms.Aamir Khan has once again taken a bold and unconventional step in film distribution. His much-anticipated upcoming film ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’, scheduled for release on June 20, 2025, will not be released on any OTT platform, including giants like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Disney+ Hotstar.Aamir Khan Sitaare Zameen Par Based on Champions (2018), adapted into Indian context.
Major OTT Deals Rejected
Sources reveal that multiple OTT platforms offered lucrative deals ranging from ₹60 crore to ₹120 crore for the film’s digital streaming rights. Netflix offered around ₹60–₹125 crores, while Amazon Prime also offered a deal of ₹120 crores.
But Aamir turned down all the offers so that the film could be released in theatres first, saving it from the crowd in the market.
> "I believe in the theatrical culture. If a film is good, audiences will come to the cinema halls,"
– Aamir Khan, during a recent press interaction.
YouTube Pay-Per-View Model in the Pipeline
Following its theatrical run, Khan and his team are preparing to launch the film on YouTube via a Pay-Per-View (PPV) model, rather than a conventional OTT release.
Under this model, viewers will be able to rent the film on YouTube for a one-time fee—no subscription required. This move is intended to expand the film’s reach, especially in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, where access to major streaming platforms is often limited.This decision signals a potential shift in the landscape of Indian film distribution. Known for his innovative approach in films like Lagaan, Taare Zameen Par, and Dangal, Aamir Khan is once again breaking new ground—this time, by combining theatre-first release with direct-to-consumer digital access.While the move is being hailed as revolutionary, it is not without risks.
On one hand, this strategy challenges the dominance of OTT subscription models; on the other, it must tackle issues such as piracy, monetization efficiency, and audience adaptation to a pay-per-view format in India.More than just a heartfelt family film, Sitaare Zameen Par is shaping up to be a case study in alternative distribution models. Aamir Khan’s decision could pave the way for a new era in Indian cinema if the approach proves successful.
Whether the audience embraces this innovative release strategy remains to be seen—but one thing is certain: once again, Aamir Khan is leading from the front, both on and off screen
Some films are meant to be experienced on the big screen — with audiences laughing, crying, and feeling together,” Aamir Khan stated. “Sitaare Zameen Par is one such film.Aamir Khan not only stars in the film but also produces it under his banner Aamir Khan Productions. The actor has reportedly worked closely with director RS Prasanna to ensure the message of the film is both powerful and accessible to audiences of all ages.
Sitaare Zameen Par Movie Cast
Aamir Khan leads as a once-renowned basketball coach tasked with training a team of players with intellectual disabilities as part of his community service.
Genelia Deshmukh co-stars, marking her first collaboration with Aamir Khan.
Additionally, Darsheel Safary—who starred in the original Taare Zameen Par—also appears in this new film.