New Delhi: Aamir Khan is no stranger to unconventional decisions, but his latest move to opt for a theatre-exclusive release for his upcoming film 'Sitaare Zameen Par' has sparked conversation across the entertainment industry. In an era where most big-ticket films find their way to OTT platforms within weeks of theatrical release, Aamir’s choice to hold back from streaming has drawn both curiosity and admiration.
During a recent group interaction at India Today, Aamir opened up about the backlash and resistance he faced from industry peers for choosing the traditional route. When asked how others in the film fraternity reacted to his decision, the 'Dangal' star revealed that it was none other than Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan who gave him the reassurance he needed.
Aamir Khan shared, “Everyone was suggesting we go the conventional way, but I was adamant about a theatre-only release. That night, when I met Mr Bachchan, I don’t know what came over me, but I opened up to him about my concerns. I told him that friends and well-well-wishers all felt I wasn’t making the right choice. But he told me, ‘Why aren’t you doing it? You’ve always taken risks. You’re a risk-taker.’"
The actor admitted that although he had moments of doubt and fear, he strongly believes in the sanctity of the theatrical experience. “I was scared and unsure,” he confessed, adding that an eight-week digital window undermines the very essence of cinema.
Clarifying that he has no issues with OTT platforms, Aamir stated that he simply doesn’t find the current timeline fair to the cinematic medium. "I did receive offers, but I turned them down because I want audiences to go to theatres and watch my film. I believe in cinema, and I believe in my audience,” he said.
About 'Sitaare Zameen Par'
'Sitaare Zameen Par', Aamir Khan’s next major release, is a heartwarming sports drama. He plays a disgraced basketball coach who, as part of a court order, trains a team of intellectually disabled individuals. Genelia Deshmukh stars alongside him, with a supporting cast featuring Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishna Varma, Samvit Desai, and others.
The film is slated to release in theatres on June 20 with no OTT release planned any time soon.
