In a surprising move that’s shaking up traditional digital release strategies, Aamir Khan’s much-anticipated film Sitaare Zameen Par is set to bypass the usual streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar. Instead, the makers have opted for a bold and unconventional route — releasing the film directly on YouTube. And yes, there’s a price tag attached.
According to industry insiders, the decision came after much deliberation between the producers and digital distributors. Rather than tying the film to an OTT giant with exclusive rights and subscription-based access, Aamir Khan’s team decided to make Sitaare Zameen Par available to a wider global audience via YouTube’s paid streaming option. The film will reportedly be available at a fixed rental amount — a move aimed at reaching more viewers without the barrier of paid OTT subscriptions.
Sources close to the project revealed that the film will be released on YouTube for a rental fee of ₹150, allowing users to stream it within a 48-hour window after purchase. This model not only gives access to non-subscribers of OTT platforms but also targets global audiences who may not have consistent access to Indian streaming apps.
Aamir Khan, who is both starring in and producing the film under his banner Aamir Khan Productions, is known for his forward-thinking strategies. With Sitaare Zameen Par, the actor seems to be experimenting with the evolving landscape of content consumption — especially in the post-pandemic era where YouTube has emerged as a powerful viewing destination even for long-form content.
Speaking about the decision during an industry panel (as per sources), Aamir reportedly said, “The goal with Sitaare Zameen Par is to ensure maximum reach. We wanted the film to be accessible, not just to those who pay monthly for premium platforms, but to anyone with a phone and an internet connection.” He emphasized that cinema, especially one with a message, shouldn’t be restricted behind paywalls that limit its audience.
This is not the first time Aamir has chosen the road less travelled. From releasing Lagaan with a near three-hour runtime at a time when shorter films were in vogue, to producing the emotionally charged Taare Zameen Par, Khan has always taken creative risks. And this new distribution strategy continues that legacy.
Sitaare Zameen Par is said to be a spiritual successor to Taare Zameen Par, with a new narrative centered on children with special needs — but this time told through the lens of hope, acceptance, and triumph. Aamir plays a mentor figure once again, though in a different context than the one we saw in the 2007 classic. Early glimpses of the film suggest a powerful blend of heart, humour, and inspiration.
The industry’s reaction to this move has been mixed. While some trade analysts see it as a gamble — stepping away from lucrative OTT deals — others believe it could mark a turning point in the Indian film industry’s relationship with digital platforms. If Sitaare Zameen Par succeeds in this model, it might open doors for more big-banner films to experiment with direct-to-YouTube releases, especially for socially relevant stories that need to reach the grassroots.
Fans, on the other hand, are thrilled. Social media has been buzzing with excitement, with many praising the team for choosing a platform that’s more accessible and affordable. “Finally, a film we can watch without needing five subscriptions,” one fan tweeted, while another commented, “Trust Aamir Khan to bring cinema back to the people.”
With its meaningful storyline, Aamir’s trusted storytelling style, and now an innovative release model, Sitaare Zameen Par seems poised to make an impact — not just on screen, but in how Indian cinema reaches its audience.
