MUMBAI: JioHotstar has smashed through the 100 million subscriber barrier, a right royal victory in India's streaming wars. The platform, a product of the $8.5 billion Disney-Reliance mega-merger, has turned streaming from a posh indulgence into a daily must-have for millions of Indians. They've clearly got their ducks in a row.

Their secret weapon? Sports, and lots of it. They've snapped up the rights to the IPL, ICC events, and the Women's Premier League, turning cricket into a digital spectacle. And the streamer is not just showing the game; it's throwing in all the bells and whistles: 4K ultra-HD, AI-powered analytics, real-time stats, and even voice commands. It's like watching the match with a team of tech wizards in your living room.

But it's not all about the cricket. JioHotstar boasts a "world's most extensive" TV library, Hollywood blockbusters, and a smorgasbord of Indian language content. It has even dabbled in live streaming cultural events, from Coldplay concerts to religious ceremonies, proving they're not afraid to mix things up.

"We have always believed that world-class entertainment should be accessible to all," said JioStar CEO Kiran Mani sounding rather pleased with himself. "This milestone not only underscores India's limitless potential but also strengthens our commitment to pioneering category-first experiences."

The streamer has  also launched Sparks, featuring India's popular content creators, which sounds like a right old digital knees-up.

This subscriber surge marks a significant victory for JioHotStar, proving that a potent mix of sports, entertainment, and a bit of tech wizardry can win the hearts (and wallets) of millions. And with the IPL 2025 season in full swing, one imagines the team is  popping the champagne.