KATHMANDU, Dec 23: The buzz around business reality shows is about to escalate in Nepal as Himalaya TV gears up to launch the Nepali version of the world-renowned program Shark Tank. The official announcement of ‘Shark Tank Nepal’ was made at a ceremony held in the capital on Monday, offering a new platform for entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas and secure investments for growth.
During the ceremony, the five sharks (judges) for the first season were introduced. The sharks will listen to startup proposals, investing in promising ideas and helping businesses expand their business reach.
The first season will feature Hem Raj Dhakal, co-founder of IME Group, Cabinet Shrestha, managing director of Agni Group, Ritu Singh Vaidya, managing director of Vaidya Group, Anand Bagaria, managing director of Nimbus Holdings Pvt Ltd, and Saurabh Jyoti, director of Padma Jyoti Group. The show will also include two guest sharks, who will join in later seasons.
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During the ceremony, the executive director of Sony Television London and members of the Indian version of Shark Tank congratulated Himalaya TV via video messages, wishing them success as they embark on this exciting venture in Nepal.
Himalaya TV's Executive Director, Shyam Kandel, mentioned that although the agreement with Sony was made three years ago, the show was delayed due to Covid-19 pandemic and the economic recession. He stated that it is not just a show but a message of optimism for Nepal’s business future. “The platform is designed to develop and celebrate entrepreneurship, especially in a country brimming with potential but lacking sufficient opportunities for young businesses to scale,” he said.
One of the sharks, Hem Raj Dhakal, stated that the show will encourage youth towards entrepreneurship. Another shark, Cabinet Shrestha mentioned that this show is not just a business reality show, but it will take Nepali businesses to new heights.
The event also saw the launch of a call for applications, inviting entrepreneurs to present their business ideas to the sharks. In exchange for investment, applicants will be required to offer a percentage of their business shares or debt. Entrepreneurs seeking expansion capital can apply through the Himalaya TV app and website until January 15.
Himalaya TV’s chairman, Dharma Raj Bhusal, and the sharks engaged with the audience in an interactive Q&A session, giving insight into the upcoming episodes. Directed by Simosh Sunuwar, who gained fame for Himalaya Roadies, the show will feature five entrepreneurs in each episode. Over the course of 20 episodes, a total of 100 entrepreneurs will pitch their business ideas.
The sharks have committed to securing investments between Rs 350 million and Rs 400 million for promising businesses. The program is set to begin filming in mid-February, with the first episode expected to air within three months. Filming will take place at Everest Hotel in New Baneshwar.
