Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, known for his perfectionist approach to filmmaking, has reportedly rejected a staggering ₹120 crore OTT deal from Amazon Prime Video for the direct-to-digital release of his upcoming film, Sitaare Zameen Par. The unexpected move has taken the industry by surprise, sparking curiosity about the actor’s reasons for turning down such a lucrative offer.
About Sitaare Zameen Par
Sitaare Zameen Par is Aamir Khan’s spiritual successor to his critically acclaimed 2007 hit Taare Zameen Par. While the earlier film focused on the struggles of a child with dyslexia, the new story is said to revolve around eight children with learning challenges, but this time with a sports and inspirational twist.
Aamir Khan plays a central role and is also producing the film under his banner Aamir Khan Productions. The movie is said to be emotional, uplifting, and tailored for a family audience, with themes that blend inclusivity, determination, and triumph.
The ₹120 Crore Offer from Prime Video
According to media sources, Amazon Prime Video offered a massive ₹120 crore deal for exclusive OTT streaming rights to Sitaare Zameen Par. This would have been one of the biggest deals in Indian OTT history, especially for a film of this genre.
However, Aamir Khan chose to turn it down, insisting on a theatrical-first release.
Why Aamir Khan Rejected the OTT Deal
Here are the main reasons why Aamir Khan refused the ₹120 crore OTT offer:
1. Big-Screen Emotional Impact
Aamir believes that Sitaare Zameen Par is a visually powerful and emotionally stirring film that deserves to be experienced on the big screen. Like Taare Zameen Par, the movie has elements that are best appreciated in a theater environment
| “It’s not just about numbers or convenience. Some stories need the theatre to connect fully with audiences,” said a source close to the production.
2. Support for Theatrical Revival
Aamir has been vocal about the need to revive India’s cinema-going culture, especially after the pandemic-era decline. Rejecting the OTT deal is also seen as a gesture of solidarity with theatres and distributors.
3. Brand and Legacy Focus
As someone who carefully curates his filmography, Aamir is known to prioritize legacy over money. He reportedly believes a theatrical release will preserve the cinematic integrity and long-term brand value of Sitaare Zameen Par.
4. Box Office Confidence
Despite the underwhelming performance of his last release, Laal Singh Chaddha, Aamir remains confident that Sitaare Zameen Par will resonate strongly with audiences and perform well at the box office.
Theatrical Release Date & Expectations
While no official date has been announced, Sitaare Zameen Par is expected to hit theatres in late 2025 or early 2026. The film is currently in post-production and is said to include top-tier music, strong performances, and an uplifting narrative.
Industry insiders predict the movie could be one of Aamir Khan’s biggest comeback ventures and may even emerge as a dark horse at national award platforms.
Industry Reactions
Aamir’s decision has generated mixed reactions:
- Filmmakers praise him for standing up for cinema halls and not giving in to OTT trends.
- Trade analysts see it as a bold but risky move, especially given the OTT wave and Laal Singh Chaddha’s performance.
- Fans, however, are thrilled. Many took to social media to express excitement for a big-screen Aamir Khan experience.
Final Thoughts
In an age where OTT platforms are becoming dominant and lucrative, Aamir Khan’s decision to reject a ₹120 crore streaming deal underlines his commitment to cinema as an art form. With Sitaare Zameen Par, he is not just making another film — he’s making a statement.
Whether this gamble pays off will depend on the film’s final cut and its reception at the box office. But one thing is certain — Aamir Khan is once again setting a benchmark for storytelling with purpose.
