Mukesh Ambani’s Jio World Drive in Mumbai is not just a shopping and dining destination, it also happens to be the unofficial home of Mr Jio, an adorable and friendly dog who has won over the hearts of mall-goers and staff alike.
Last year, dog trainer Niti Mehta posted a touching video of Mr Jio on Instagram, introducing the friendly pup to the world. The video starts with Mr Jio happily resting within the mall, with the caption, ‘Meet the mall dog’. As the video continues, Niti is shown playing and cuddling with Mr Jio, as another individual joins in on the play.
‘An absolute sweetheart’
The video script goes on, “Say hello to Mr Jio. He pretty much resides in the mall. And is a total sweetheart. He gets to walk around wherever he pleases. He’s an old man now, but has puppy energy. He enjoys playing hide and seek. Loves getting some neck and pets.”
Referring to him as the ‘real star of Jio World Drive’, the caption of the video said, “Meet the real star of Jio World Drive today, say hi to Mr. Jio the pup at BKC!”
Apparently, Mr Jio is loved not only by mall visitors but also by the whole staff. The video continues, “Everyone loves him including all the staff at the mall. So the next time you come to Jio mall in Mumbai… say hi to Mr Jio.”
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Netizens Shower Love on Mr. Jio
The post soon received affection on the internet, with several users posting happy memories of the friendly dog. One user posted, “Yes, he is very friendly and cute. Used to play with him occasionally when I was working at a brand there. He is mostly taken care of by the Saz staff. Very nice of them. This is how these souls should be allowed to be safe.”
One other user appreciated the mall’s welcoming nature, commenting, “I am glad humanity still exists. Hats off to the mall management for letting this sweet soul be a part of the mall. Highly appreciated and I hope more and more malls and public places give way and spaces to these speechless souls.”
Numerous others gave personal stories. “My buddy and I took 20 minutes to give him love! And we even got pictures!!! Such a sweetheart,” wrote one commenter. Another mentioned, “I’ve known this dog since he was ill and afraid of humans. Used to sit in front of my business. I used to give him dog food with the approval of the mall management. There are nice people employed in mall management.”
One of the warmest remarks encapsulated the feeling: “This doggo is a complete cutie. I had taken my dog along for a dinner where we met her and they both adored each other.”