In a major development that could shift the dynamics of digital film distribution in India, global streaming giant Netflix has reportedly made a substantial offer to acquire the exclusive streaming rights for Aamir Khan’s highly anticipated film Sitaare Zameen Par. According to sources familiar with the matter, the platform is aggressively pursuing the film in an effort to outpace a proposed YouTube-first release model—a strategy being explored by Khan’s production team.
Sitaare Zameen Par, believed to be an emotional drama with a heartwarming message, marks another directorial venture by Aamir Khan after his impactful performance and direction in Taare Zameen Par (2007). The film, although not a sequel, is said to carry forward similar themes of childhood challenges, education, and self-discovery, making it a project that already carries significant audience expectations.
According to insider reports, Khan’s team had initially been exploring an unconventional digital premiere strategy that involved launching the film on YouTube, aiming to democratize access to the movie and expand its reach far beyond the traditional paid streaming model. This move was seen as both bold and disruptive, potentially altering the way major films are released and consumed, especially by audiences in rural areas or those who do not subscribe to paid platforms.
However, Netflix appears keen to bring Sitaare Zameen Par to its global audience and is reportedly in talks to secure the film through a mega licensing deal. Industry insiders suggest that Netflix’s bid involves a substantial financial package, likely including worldwide streaming rights, high-end promotional campaigns, and flexible release windows—all aimed at convincing Aamir Khan to forgo the YouTube-first model.
“Netflix recognizes the emotional impact and universal appeal of a film like this,” said an industry executive familiar with the negotiations. “They know that if a filmmaker like Aamir Khan chooses YouTube for premiere, it could change the OTT game. By offering an aggressive bid, they’re trying to maintain their edge and ensure exclusivity.”
If the deal materializes, Sitaare Zameen Par could become one of Netflix India’s most high-profile original acquisitions to date, following the success of titles like Darlings, Monica, O My Darling, and Mission Majnu. The platform has been actively investing in Indian content to capture the fast-growing streaming audience in the country, and locking in a film headlined by Aamir Khan would be a major coup.
Aamir Khan, known for his unconventional choices and deep involvement in every aspect of filmmaking, has yet to publicly confirm which platform the film will debut on. However, sources close to his production house suggest that a decision will be made soon, with factors like creative freedom, audience accessibility, and long-term impact playing key roles in the final call.
While YouTube offers mass accessibility and virality, Netflix’s offer presents the allure of a premium experience, global exposure, and a potentially larger revenue stream. The decision, whichever way it goes, could set a precedent for how future Bollywood films—especially socially impactful ones—choose to reach their audiences.
Fans of Aamir Khan are eagerly waiting for more updates about the film’s release, while industry observers are closely watching to see whether Khan rewrites the rules of digital distribution yet again.
