Aamir Khan has earned huge praise from the Multiplex Association of India (MAI) for his decision to release his latest film, Sitaare Zameen Par, exclusively in cinemas. As the film opens in theatres today, the MAI released a lengthy statement on their social media handles, to hail the actor-producer for his commitment to the theatrical experience at a time when the industry has been facing increasing pressure from digital platforms and shrinking cinema-to-streaming windows.In an official statement, MAI President Kamal Gianchandani commended Khan’s move as a “visionary and resolute” step, saying, “Aamir Khan has always put the audience first. His decision to bring Sitaare Zameen Par exclusively to theatres is a powerful message — that cinemas remain the heart of immersive, community-driven storytelling.”This note comes amid growing concerns over the declining exclusivity of theatrical releases, with many films heading to streaming platforms within weeks of their theatrical debut. Aamir, known for his selective filmography and long gaps between projects, also weighed in on the issue during a recent promotional event. He criticised the current trend of quick digital releases, blaming the industry for undermining its own value proposition.“Today, we’ve brought this situation upon ourselves,” Khan said. “We ask audiences to come to theatres, but then tell them, ‘It’s okay if you don’t — we’ll bring the film to your home in eight weeks.’ Why would they make the effort to step out then?”He went on to explain, “Imagine I try to sell you a glass, and when you say no, I offer to deliver it to your home for free in eight weeks. You won’t buy it. That’s exactly what’s happening with films today.”Sitaare Zameen Par, makes its theatrical debut today, June 20. According to early box office predictions, the film has recorded an advance booking of around Rs 4 crore gross and is expected to rake in an estimated Rs 7 crore on Day 1. The emotional drama, directed by RS Prasanna also stars Genelia Deshmukh in the lead role and introduces 10 newcomers — Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishna Varma, Samvit Desai, Vedant Sharma, Ayush Bhansali, Ashish Pendse, Rishi Shahani, Rishabh Jain, Naman Mishra, and Simran Mangeshkar — adding fresh talent to the ensemble cast.
