Shark Tank Nepal: What Is It? Who Are The Sharks?

Shark Tank Nepal is an upcoming and much awaited business reality show where entrepreneurs who have revenue-generating businesses can seek investments to expand. They will present their business information to a panel of investors, hoping to gain funding in exchange for a part of their company’s ownership or debt. 

The show, which follows the international Shark Tank format, will not only give Nepali entrepreneurs a chance to showcase their ideas but also inject a level of enthusiasm in the startup ecosystem. It is set to premiere on Himalaya Television in July this year. 

The investors, known as ‘sharks’ include prominent business figures and investors in Nepal: Saurabh Jyoti, Hem Raj Dhakal, Anand Bagaria, Ritu Vaidya and Cabinet Shrestha. All five are dynamic business personas bringing a different range of skillsets and mindset to the show. Audiences can expect to see sharks see a great idea, battle for the best deals and invest their money, they also get to see budding entrepreneurs with groundbreaking ideas have a real chance in making their dream come true. 

Hem Raj Dhakal

Hem Raj Dhakal is the Co-founder of IME Conglomerate, a diverse company with may business verticals in Nepal. He transformed the country’s financial sector operating in various sectors like banking, digital finance and technology, creating over 13,850 jobs. Dhakal, with degrees from MIT and Harvard, is known for his ability to scale businesses and support startups. He is also committed to social entrepreneurship through the IME Foundation.

Cabinet Shrestha

Cabinet Shrestha, Chairman of Agni Group, is a pioneer in Nepal’s automotive and technology industries. He grew a small IT company into a multi-sector business powerhouse with 65 locations. Shrestha introduced electric vehicles to Nepal showing his commitment to sustainability. His diverse business portfolio includes automotive, education, hospitality and technology. He emphasises continuous personal development for business excellence.

Saurabh Jyoti

Saurabh Jyoti is Chairperson of Padma Jyoti Group, one of Nepal’s most diversified business groups. He oversees an enterprise employing over 3,000 people across various sectors, including manufacturing, trading, and investments. Jyoti has held leadership roles in entrepreneurial forums and is currently an advisor to FNCCI’s Start Up and Innovation Committee. His investments span hospitality, healthcare, and power. He is also a popular YouTuber and a sought-after public persona. 

Ritu Singh Vaidya

Ritu Singh Vaidya is the Managing Director of United Traders Syndicate (UTS), the authorised Toyota dealer in Nepal. She is also a key leader in Vaidya’s Organisation of Industries and Trading House (VOITH), overseeing a vast business empire. Beyond her corporate success, Vaidya champions women’s entrepreneurship. She is actively involved in organisations that empower women in business and has launched initiatives in microfinance banking for Nepali women. She also holds the distinction of being the first woman founding President of the Nepal Automobile Importers and Manufacturer Association.

Anand Bagaria

Anand Bagaria is the founder of NIMBUS, a Rs 13 billion agribusiness enterprise in Nepal. He has revolutionised the country’s agricultural landscape through initiatives in feed production, food processing and FMCG distribution. NIMBUS connects with over 35,000 farmers and employs more than 500 professionals. Bagaria is known for his innovation, establishing Nepal’s first ISO-certified pellet feed mill and the country’s first locally-made dog food brand. He is recognized for his commitment to resource management and business innovation.