In an intriguing turn of events, a Delhi-based app developer has captured attention by purchasing the domain JioHotstar.com, foreseeing a potential merger between Reliance’s JioCinema and Disney’s Hotstar. As news of the impending merger gains traction, the developer is offering to relinquish control of the domain, but not for cash—he’s asking Reliance Industries to fund his higher education at Cambridge University.
The developer, who remains anonymous and has signed the letter as “a dreamer,” penned an open letter to Reliance Industries’ executives, which he posted on the domain JioHotstar.com. The letter outlines his visionary decision to purchase the domain in early 2023, hypothesizing that a merger between Disney+ Hotstar and JioCinema could be on the cards after Hotstar began losing users following the loss of IPL streaming rights. Drawing inspiration from Reliance’s previous rebranding of the music platform Saavn to JioSaavn, the developer speculated that a similar move would occur with Hotstar.
“My intention of buying this domain was simple: if this merger happens, I might be able to fulfill my dream of studying at Cambridge,” the developer explains in his letter. He recounts his experience working on a project that was selected for the Cambridge University Accelerate program, describing it as a transformative moment in his journey as an entrepreneur. However, the cost of pursuing a full degree at the prestigious institution remains out of reach for him, a barrier he hopes this domain sale can overcome.
In his open plea, he encourages Reliance executives to reach out via email to negotiate the purchase of the domain, noting that for a multi-billion dollar corporation, the acquisition would be minor but for him, life-changing. “For me, the sale of this domain would mean everything—enabling me to achieve my lifelong dream of studying at Cambridge.”
The Timing of the Merger
This unusual request comes amid rumors that Reliance Industries’ Viacom18 and Disney’s Star India merger could be concluded by early November. With regulatory approvals from the Competition Commission of India (CCI), the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) already secured, the media giants are reportedly on track to create India’s largest entertainment conglomerate, valued at approximately $8.5 billion.
As part of the merger, Viacom18’s assets will transfer to Star India, making it the operating company post-merger. Once completed, this deal could dramatically reshape India’s media landscape, consolidating power between two of the largest media players.
The Developer’s Vision and Speculation
The app developer’s foresight in acquiring the JioHotstar domain was rooted in both strategic thinking and a desire to fund his future studies. He predicted that the merged entity could potentially adopt the JioHotstar branding, as it maintains brand equity for both JioCinema and Disney Hotstar, providing a seamless transition for users.
This speculative move seems particularly prescient, with the merger expected to be completed within the next few weeks. As Indian media companies ramp up their AI and technology efforts, the domain could become a coveted digital asset.
The story of this “dreamer” exemplifies how foresight, technology, and opportunity can converge in unexpected ways. Now, only time will tell if Reliance Industries will respond to the developer’s unique proposition—one that could fund an education while handing over a domain that may hold the key to their merged brand identity.
A Call for Action
The letter on JioHotstar.com remains open for executives of Reliance to view and respond. It reads: “To acquire this domain, kindly reach out to mail@jiohotstar.com from your company email address with an official letter attached, stating your authorization to purchase on behalf of Reliance Industries/Viacom18. For a multi-billion dollar company like Reliance, this will be a minor expense, but for me, the sale of this domain would be truly life-changing.”
As of now, there’s no word from Reliance Industries regarding the domain, but with the merger announcement looming, a response may be imminent. For the Delhi-based developer, the stakes are high—but so too is the potential payoff if his vision of JioHotstar becomes a reality.
