Aamir Khan's latest film, 'Sitaare Zameen Par,' has transitioned from its theatrical run to a unique digital release on YouTube, making it accessible to a global audience. This move bypasses traditional Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, aiming to broaden the film's reach.
Directed by R.S. Prasanna, 'Sitaare Zameen Par' is a spiritual successor to Khan's 2007 film, 'Taare Zameen Par.' The movie, inspired by the Spanish film 'Champions,' explores themes of mental health and inclusivity. It stars Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh, alongside a cast of ten new actors. The film's trailer was released on May 8, 2025, and it achieved the sixth-highest Hindi opening of 2025, earning ₹11.7 crore on its opening day. As of July 29, 2025, the film had grossed ₹265.71 crore worldwide, positioning it as the fourth highest-grossing Bollywood film internationally for the year.
The film's YouTube journey commenced on August 1, 2025, with a pay-per-view model. Initially priced at ₹100 in India, it also featured localized rates in 38 other countries. To commemorate Independence Day, a special offer reduced the rental price to ₹50 in India from August 15 to August 17, 2025.
Aamir Khan's decision to release the film on YouTube stems from a desire to enhance accessibility for audiences who may not have had the opportunity to watch it in theaters. He noted that even successful theatrical releases reach only a fraction of the population, and the digital model facilitates a greater connection with viewers, especially with increasing internet penetration across India. This approach also supports Khan's vision of creating a viable window between theatrical releases and broader digital accessibility.
'Sitaare Zameen Par' continues to resonate with audiences, offering a narrative that celebrates individuality and challenges conventional perceptions of ability. Its thematic exploration of mental health and inclusivity reflects a growing trend in Indian cinema towards more sensitive and meaningful storytelling.