Bollywood star Aamir Khan is once again redefining industry norms, and this time, it’s not with a blockbuster action flick but with an emotionally-driven sports comedy. ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’, directed by RS Prasanna, is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about releases of 2024, even without the conventional ingredients of masala entertainers. The film, seen as a thematic follow-up to Khan’s beloved 2007 directorial debut ‘Taare Zameen Par’, is generating major buzz ahead of its theatrical release on June 20.

Sitaare Zameen Par OTT Release?

In an age where films are snapped up for OTT releases weeks after theatrical debuts, Aamir Khan is choosing to swim against the current. Reportedly, the superstar turned down a jaw-dropping ₹120 crore deal from Amazon Prime Video for digital rights.

While many assumed this could be a negotiation tactic, trade analyst Komal Nahta set the record straight in Film Information, saying Khan’s decision was intentional and strategic: “To try and change the game.” Aamir has been vocal about the conventional 8-week theatrical-to-OTT model being flawed, and now he’s putting that belief into action.

Nahta added, “If Aamir’s strategy works and the film’s absence of an OTT release drives up box office revenue, it could be a revelation for the industry.” But the gamble comes with risks too. If the plan fails, the film could forgo an easy ₹120 crore.

Exhibitor Instructions: No Early Morning Shows, No Price Surge

Aamir isn’t just experimenting with distribution strategy; he’s rethinking how audiences experience films. According to Bollywood Hungama, exhibitors have been directed not to begin shows before 9 am. Additionally, the actor-producer has requested theatres to stick to standard weekend pricing rather than the inflated “blockbuster” rates commonly used for big releases.

Sitaare Zameen Par Show Count Guidelines for Single-Screen and Multiplexes

To ensure wide accessibility, Aamir’s team has laid down specific show count requirements for various theatre formats:

Single screens must dedicate all shows exclusively to ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’.

Two-screen cinemas: Minimum 8 shows per day

Three to six-screen multiplexes: Between 11 to 19 shows daily

Seven-screen multiplexes: At least 22 shows

Eight-screen: 25 shows

Nine-screen: 28 shows

Ten or more screens: Minimum 31 shows a day

These meticulous guidelines show Aamir's clear intent to give the film maximum visibility without relying on OTT traction.

While many big-budget Bollywood releases are designed as spectacle-driven extravaganzas, ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’ promises a heartwarming, grounded cinematic experience—something viewers seem to be craving more of in today’s high-octane era.