Yourbackers Foundation Launches ‘Yourbackers Play’ – The World’s First Non-Profit OTT Platform!
Yourbackers Foundation proudly introduces ‘Yourbackers Play,’ the world’s first non-profit OTT (Over-The-Top) digital platform. Through this pioneering initiative that blends entertainment with social service, every screening watched by a user directly creates a positive impact on society. Kishore Aditya, the founder of this OTT platform, has previously produced the film Manitham and is currently producing a movie starring Mime Gopi in the lead role.
This OTT platform represents a historic initiative that unites artists, audiences, and the film fraternity, transforming entertainment into a tool for social change. Users can watch movies on the platform for free; however, those who wish to contribute can generously make donations. These funds will be utilized to serve the underprivileged.
The historic launch ceremony of ‘Yourbackers Play’ was officially held in the presence of leading celebrities and key executives from the Tamil film industry. Prior to the launch, trailers for films currently available on the platform—such as Manitham, V3, Kota, Mellisai, Dawood, and Oh Butterfly—were screened. Speaking at the event, Kishore Aditya, founder of YuvaPackers OTT, said:
“Thank you to everyone present at this event. It has been six years since the YuvaPackers Foundation was established. We worked with the aim of eradicating plastic in Pondicherry. We set a Guinness World Record by venturing into the sea to clear out plastic waste. Even the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Mr. Modi, praised our service. We also continue to work towards women’s empowerment.
In the realm of cinema, we distributed Vijay Sethupathi’s film Maamanithan in the North and South Arcot regions. Subsequently, we produced films like Infinity and Kazhumaram, followed by Manitham.
Audiences generally prefer watching big-budget films on OTT platforms. In this context, we have taken the initiative to encourage viewers to watch smaller films through our OTT platform. There is no subscription fee; movies can be watched for free. We offer an ‘Impact Ticket’ option, allowing users to contribute any amount they wish. A major portion of these contributions goes towards social service, while the remainder is distributed to those involved in the film’s production. Our OTT platform also features a special ‘SOS’ function—an initiative designed to help prevent crimes against women, particularly during the night. Furthermore, we plan to produce films using AI technology; this will be implemented in the next phase.
We intend to acquire films through both outright purchase and revenue-sharing models for release on this platform. The growth of this OTT service will generate a steady income stream for many small films. Nothing is impossible if we put in the effort. If we simply perform our duties without expecting anything in return, unexpected good things will happen to us. Please extend your support. Thank you.” Speaking at the event, FEFSI President R.K. Selvamani said:
“OTT is also a form of cinema exhibition. Initially, OTT emerged as a tool to strengthen the film industry, but it has now reached a stage where it controls cinema. OTT companies, which once competed fiercely to acquire films, have now stopped purchasing them. Furthermore, they are the ones deciding release dates; currently, no hero in Tamil cinema can determine their own release date. That is the phase Tamil cinema is in right now.
It is heartening to see the launch of a Tamil OTT platform. I also have a significant personal reason for attending this event: Kishore has pledged to allocate 20% of the profits to the workers. Please acquire and offer high-quality films to the audience; only then will a large number of fans place their trust in you and tune in.
A film may succeed or fail, but currently, a lot of ‘trashy’ movies are being released. In such a climate, please acquire and release only good films. There are approximately 1,000 Tamil films currently stalled and unreleased; surely, at least 200 of them are good films. Try to acquire those. I wish you a successful journey.”
Speaking at the event, Actor S.Ve. Sekar said:
“Often, unrelated individuals attend events and speak about irrelevant topics, turning those remarks into the main talking point while the actual purpose of the event gets overshadowed. Avoiding that, I will speak only about matters relevant to this occasion. It is commendable that this foundation, which has been engaged in social service for six years, has now launched a non-profit OTT platform. They have introduced a feature called ‘Kajanā’ (Treasury) on this platform and are also issuing ‘white papers’ (financial transparency reports). True business exists only when investors see a return on their capital; nothing in this world is free. This venture needs to be a sound business as well. People won’t watch your content simply because it is free; quality is paramount.”
…Acquire high-quality content accordingly. The OTT landscape is currently dominated by just a few major players; to succeed, one must look beyond them. Leverage the advice of experienced professionals and create films that resonate with the audience’s tastes. The service you provide is what will ultimately sustain you.”
Actor Bose Venkat said:
“The OTT space is a stronghold of corporate giants; Netflix and Amazon Prime are present everywhere in the world. If Tamil Nadu is to have its own OTT platform, the government needs to take the initiative—something that hasn’t happened yet. While Netflix and Amazon host hundreds of thousands of films, we don’t watch everything; we make choices. Similarly, the audience will also be selective about what they watch. So, strive to offer fresh, innovative content and tap into the imaginations of the youth. That path will lead you to great heights.”
Actor Mime Gopi said:
“I initially approached Kishore Sir to learn acting. He speaks only of positive things and is an incredibly hard worker—I often wonder when he even finds time to sleep. One day, he unexpectedly handed me an acting opportunity that had come his way; that is the film I am currently working on. We often just watch initiatives started by others, but true achievement begins the moment we take that first step. He has launched a commendable initiative, and I urge everyone to support him.”
Producer Mathiyazhagan said:
“We all enter the film industry to earn money. However, I extend my congratulations to Kishore Sir, who has stepped forward to provide a non-profit service instead of merely focusing on accumulating wealth. This is a crucial need for Tamil cinema in the current climate.” “Thank you for this noble initiative,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, actor Yugi Sethu said:
“The concept of OTT remains something I don’t quite grasp. Panchathanthiram was only a moderate success in theaters, yet people claim it was a massive hit on OTT. In today’s internet-driven world, where people are accustomed to ‘Reels,’ there is a demand for everything to move at a fast pace. The very aesthetics of cinema have changed. A situation has arisen where one must score ‘100 marks’ just to pass. We are already facing a scenario where OTT platforms are hesitant to acquire films; under these circumstances, we cannot impose conditions like mandating an eight-week gap before release.
The success rate in cinema has always hovered between 10% and 20%. If a film is purely about conveying a message, you might as well keep it at home; mass appeal is crucial. Please deliver good films. Cinema is unique in that people buy tickets to watch a movie without knowing exactly what to expect, and it is the only medium where there are no refunds. I hope this OTT venture achieves tremendous success.”
Speaking on the occasion, actor Cool Suresh said:
“People often speak of ‘eating from the same plate’ as a figure of speech, but Kishore Sir and I have genuinely shared meals from the same plate. Kishore Sir has helped countless people; one could even call him a ‘male Mother Teresa.’ I wish him great success with this OTT venture he has launched.”
Welfare assistance was also provided to destitute and underprivileged women during the event. Additionally, the occasion was graced by the presence of YuvaPackers CEO John Julius, Director Bruno, producers JK Saravanan and JK Sathish, and Star Homes Selvakumar.
