New Delhi: Dubai-based siblings Jainam and Jivika have decided to transfer ownership of the jiohotstar.com domain to Reliance Industries at no cost, framing their decision as an act of “Seva” toward a young Delhi-based app developer who originally registered the domain. Their heartfelt announcement marks the end of a journey that began with a simple yet impactful act of kindness.
In a message posted on the website, the siblings wrote:
“Today, we write to you with mixed emotions. Our journey with jiohotstar.com is coming to an end, a journey that started with a simple act of kindness to help a young developer from Delhi chase his dreams.”
How Did the Domain Story Begin?
The domain jiohotstar.com was initially registered last year by a Delhi-based app developer amidst rising speculation about a potential merger between Reliance Jio and Disney Hotstar. At the time, the merger, valued at ₹70,352 crore ($8.5 billion), was merely a rumor.
However, once the merger was officially announced, the developer approached Reliance with an unconventional proposal: funding his higher education at Cambridge University in exchange for the domain. When Reliance declined, the developer sold the domain to Jainam and Jivika.
Siblings’ Selfless Transfer to Reliance
As the merged Jio-Disney Hotstar entity prepares to become one of India’s largest media and entertainment conglomerates, with estimated annual revenues of ₹26,000 crore, Reliance’s legal team approached the siblings regarding the domain.
Despite receiving numerous offers for the domain, the siblings made an open offer to Reliance, emphasizing their decision was entirely voluntary. They clarified in their statement:
“There is no pressure from anyone, and there is no deal of any kind. This is purely a transfer of the domain from our side because we believe it could be useful for them. Whether or not they choose to use it is up to them.”
The siblings confirmed that the transfer would occur once formal agreements are signed, for which they have been invited to Mumbai.
A Mission of Seva and Community Impact
The siblings explained that their decision to transfer the domain for free aligns with their broader commitment to Seva (selfless service). They hope the move will aid the original developer in achieving his academic aspirations while continuing their larger mission of service through their NGO.
“Our mission here may be ending, but our larger journey of Seva continues,” they stated. They also took the opportunity to thank supporters who have been part of their journey and encouraged others to engage with their NGO platform.
Turning Down Offers and Staying True to Values
Previously, the siblings had declared the domain was not for sale, despite receiving several offers. Their open letter addressed rumors of a potential business deal between Jio and Hotstar, reiterating:
“We never expected this attention and never meant to cause any controversy. This decision is entirely ours, made without pressure from Reliance, any legal group, or external influences.”
Their transparent communication and commitment to altruism have drawn widespread appreciation for their approach, showcasing how personal values can lead to meaningful actions in the digital age.
The Legacy of JioHotstar.com
As Reliance prepares to potentially incorporate jiohotstar.com into its growing digital ecosystem, this story remains a testament to generosity, collaboration, and the ripple effects of selfless service.
