A Delhi-based app developer, who had the foresight to create the “JioHotstar.com” domain, is now struggling to sell it. He initially hoped that the domain name, which cleverly combines the names of Reliance Jio and Disney’s Hotstar, would attract significant offers following the merger deal between Reliance and Walt Disney’s Indian business. However, despite the approval of this high-profile media merger, he has yet to receive any offers from Reliance or any other interested buyers.
The Developer’s Dream for Higher Education
The anonymous tech enthusiast, who refers to himself as “Dreamer,” registered the domain with hopes of using the funds to pursue higher education abroad. His goal is to fund his studies at Cambridge University, where he previously participated in the Cambridge University Accelerate Program in 2021. However, despite his efforts, there has been no response from Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance group.
In a post on the JioHotstar domain page, Dreamer wrote a message directed at Reliance officials, requesting financial assistance in exchange for the domain. He originally asked for a high price but is now willing to sell it at just one-tenth of the original asking amount.
No Proposals, But Legal Experts See Potential
Though the developer has not received any proposals, some legal experts believe he may have a strong case. Given that the domain name includes “Jio” and “Hotstar,” both well-known brands, there’s potential for significant compensation if the case is pursued legally. However, the techie does not want to get involved in any legal battles and prefers a peaceful solution. He has expressed hope that Reliance will purchase the domain fairly, though he remains unsure if they will engage.
Origin of the JioHotstar Domain
The young developer was inspired to create the domain in early 2023 after hearing about Disney Plus Hotstar’s declining user base, particularly after losing IPL streaming rights. There were also reports that Disney was exploring the possibility of selling or merging Hotstar with an Indian company. It was during this time that Dreamer came up with the idea of combining the names Jio and Hotstar into a new domain, expecting it would catch attention amid the media merger buzz.
However, with the merger between Reliance and Walt Disney’s Indian business now cleared by regulators, and the formation of one of India’s largest media companies on the horizon, Dreamer is still waiting for any response or proposal from potential buyers. Despite his efforts to sell the domain, no deal has been struck.
