A Break from Traditional OTT: Aamir Khan Chooses YouTube for Film Releases

Bollywood’s Mr. Perfectionist Aamir Khan has made a bold move by deciding to release his much-anticipated film ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’ not on any OTT platform, but directly on YouTube. Viewers can now enjoy the film from the comfort of their homes for just ₹100 through his official YouTube channel ‘Aamir Khan Talkies’.

‘Aamir Khan Talkies’ – A New-Age Digital Cinema Hall

Launched in March 2025, Aamir’s YouTube channel has already garnered over three lakh subscribers. During a media event in Mumbai, Aamir explained his vision behind this digital strategy. “This is exactly why I didn’t sell the digital rights of Sitaare Zameen Par. We had this plan in motion for a while,” he said, confirming that all films under Aamir Khan Productions will follow the same model.

From ‘Lagaan’ to ‘Taare Zameen Par’ – All Films Going Digital

Every film produced by Aamir Khan Productions will be made available on YouTube after completing their theatrical run. Movies like Lagaan, Taare Zameen Par, Peepli Live, Dangal, and Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na will be released one by one under this model. Additionally, timeless classics associated with his late father Tahir Hussain—such as Caravan (1971) and Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke (1993)—will also be available on the same channel.

A Platform for Young, Independent Filmmakers

One of the key goals of this initiative is to support young and independent filmmakers who struggle to find theatrical release. “If a young filmmaker creates a film that we like, we’ll help them showcase it on our channel,” said Aamir. He clarified that while a nominal fee would be deducted, the main earnings will go directly to the creators.

Pay-Per-View Model – A Theatre-like Experience at Home

Explaining the difference between OTT subscriptions and his new model, Aamir said, “In a subscription model, the user pays for the platform, not my film. But in the pay-per-view model, the audience chooses and pays for my movie – just like buying a ticket in a theatre. This creates a direct bond between the audience and the creator.”

A Small Step from the Audience, A Giant Leap for Creators

“As a creator, I’m ready to take a thousand steps for my audience, but I wish they’d take just one step for me,” said Aamir, urging viewers to embrace this new approach.

A Turning Point in India’s Digital Film Distribution

This decision is not just a business move but could mark a major shift in India’s digital film distribution. Aamir’s pay-per-view strategy blends theatrical experience with digital convenience and has the potential to empower both established and emerging storytellers.