Sat Aug 02 17:40:00 UTC 2025: **News Article: Aamir Khan Ditches OTT, Premieres ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’ Exclusively on YouTube for Rs 100**

**Mumbai, India** – In a groundbreaking move shaking up the Indian film industry, superstar Aamir Khan has announced that his latest hit, “Sitaare Zameen Par,” will bypass traditional streaming platforms and premiere exclusively on YouTube Movies-on-Demand starting August 1st. Viewers globally can rent the film for a one-time fee of Rs 100 (or local equivalent in 38 international markets) on the Aamir Khan Talkies YouTube channel.

Khan’s decision comes amid growing concerns about the dwindling theatre business in India, citing decreasing cinema hall numbers and a shrinking window between theatrical and OTT releases. He aims to reach the 97% of the Indian population who, he says, don’t regularly attend cinemas, citing factors like affordability, accessibility, and changing viewing habits.

“Sitaare Zameen Par,” which stars Khan alongside Genelia Deshmukh and ten actors with intellectual disabilities, has already achieved significant box office success, earning Rs 164 crore in India and Rs 67 crore overseas. Khan hopes the new YouTube model will address piracy concerns by providing an affordable and accessible alternative to traditional cinema viewing.

The pay-per-view model allows users to stream the movie ad-free for a 48-hour period within a 30-day rental window. Subtitles and dubbing will be available in key languages. Profits will be shared between Khan and YouTube.

YouTube India’s Country Managing Director, Gunjan Soni, hailed the move as a step towards democratizing Indian film distribution on a global scale. Aamir Khan Productions plans to offer a library of films, including classic movies made by Aamir’s father Tahir Hussain for rent, and Aamir’s popular TV show Satyamev Jayate for free. Khan also expressed his willingness to open his platform for other talented young filmmakers.

Khan insists his “Janta Ka Theatre” model is not a replacement for cinemas, which will always be his first stop.

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