Aamir Khan’s production house faced unexpected technical hiccups after launching the pay-per-view release of Sitaare Zameen Par on YouTube. Apple device users reported being overcharged, with the rental fee reflecting at ₹179 instead of the announced ₹100 – sparking multiple complaints across social platforms.
The film, released under a new direct-to-audience model, bypasses traditional OTT platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar. Instead, it offers audiences the ability to rent Khan’s films directly from his official YouTube channel, providing broader access, especially in regions with limited theatre options.
Following the overcharging reports, Aamir Khan Productions issued an official statement on X (formerly Twitter):
“Our sincere apologies. We just became aware that the cost to rent our film Sitaare Zameen Par is reflecting ₹179 on Apple devices. We are trying to resolve this issue as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience and understanding.”
The initiative marks a significant shift in Khan’s distribution strategy, responding to evolving post-pandemic viewing habits. With cinema footfalls yet to fully recover, the pay-per-view model aims to bridge accessibility gaps while encouraging legal content consumption at an affordable price.
The pricing discrepancy appears to be linked to Apple’s service fees, which are known to inflate in-app purchase prices. While the issue is being addressed, the incident highlights the complexities of launching alternative distribution models on third-party platforms.
Despite the glitch, Sitaare Zameen Par’s direct digital release reflects a bold step towards redefining content access in India’s evolving entertainment landscape.
