Our Bureau
Mumbai
Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has drawn widespread acclaim from India’s multiplex industry for his bold decision to release his upcoming film “Sitaare Zameen Par” exclusively in cinemas, with no plans for an OTT or streaming debut. The Multiplex Association of India (MAI), representing over 11 cinema chains and more than 2,500 screens nationwide, has publicly lauded Khan for his “visionary and resolute” stance, calling it a significant boost for the beleaguered theatrical sector.
The film, a spiritual successor to Khan’s acclaimed 2007 drama “Taare Zameen Par,” has hit screens on June 20. In an era where most mainstream releases migrate to streaming platforms within 6–8 weeks, Khan’s insistence on a cinema-only release is being hailed as a statement of faith in the enduring power of big-screen storytelling. Notably, the actor has reportedly turned down a lucrative ₹120 crore offer from Amazon Prime Video for the film’s digital rights, signaling his commitment to the theatrical experience.
Kamal Gianchandani, President of MAI and CEO of PVR-INOX, praised Khan as a filmmaker who “puts the audience first,” adding that the decision to bring “Sitaare Zameen Par” exclusively to cinemas is “a significant show of confidence in theatres and the shared magic of the moviegoing experience”. Devang Sampat, CEO of Cinepolis India, echoed the sentiment, describing the release as “a message of unwavering belief in cinemas” and a much-needed morale boost for exhibitors still recovering from pandemic-era losses.
Directed by R.S. Prasanna, “Sitaare Zameen Par” stars Khan as a basketball coach leading a team of children with special needs, with Genelia D’Souza and debut performances from ten specially abled actors. Industry experts and trade analysts believe the film’s exclusive theatrical run could encourage audiences to return to cinemas, particularly benefiting single-screen theatres that have struggled most in recent years.
