Galaxy 4K TV: A Spectacular Launch and a Swift Demise – What Went Wrong in 3 Years?

In the not-so-distant past, the launch of Galaxy 4K TV promised to be a milestone in Nepal’s media history. The brainchild of renowned journalist Rabi Lamichhane, the channel aimed to revolutionize television by making public issues its focal point. However, what began with grandeur and high expectations is now a tale of financial turmoil, accusations, and uncertainty.

The inauguration of Galaxy TV on Falgun 11, 2077, was a star-studded affair, with then Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba officiating amidst a gathering of the country’s prominent figures. Rabi Lamichhane, a beloved journalist, and the face of the channel pledged to bring public issues to the forefront of national discourse. Sadly, before celebrating its third anniversary, Galaxy TV found itself drowning in financial woes.

On Asar 1, 2079, Rabi Lamichhane shocked the media landscape by resigning from Galaxy TV, transitioning into politics. Now the Chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party and a Member of Parliament from Chitwan, he briefly served as Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. Despite his current political role, accusations linger regarding his departure from the television venture he once spearheaded.

GB Rai, the investor who poured crores of rupees into the venture, saw the potential in Rabi’s popularity, fueled by his success with ‘Sidha Kura Janata Sen’ on News 24 television. The partnership, with Rai as Chairman and Rabi as Managing Director, appeared promising. However, as sources reveal, Rabi worked as an employee, drawing a monthly salary of Rs 550,000 initially, later increased to Rs 8 lakh post-launch. Despite assurances of a five-year commitment, Rabi’s abrupt departure raised questions about his dedication to the project.

Galaxy TV, branded as Nepal’s first 4K technology-based television, initially created a buzz. Rabi Lamichhane, not only the company’s leader but also the face of its flagship program ‘Sidha Kura,’ played a pivotal role. However, fierce competition and a contracting advertising market took a toll on the channel’s aspirations. In Asar 2079, Rabi’s sudden resignation plunged Galaxy TV into uncertainty.

Rumors circulated that Rabi left with Galaxy Chairman Rai’s blessing, marked by a friendly send-off. However, sources now suggest that Rai regrets his association with Lamichhane, claiming financial deception and pending personal transactions. The fallout left Galaxy TV in a dire financial crisis, with 122 employees facing seven months of unpaid salaries.

Currently, the channel is in a state of paralysis, playing only songs as its employees have ceased work. Simultaneously, owner GB Rai faces accusations of embezzling over 16 billion rupees from Suryadarshan Savings and Loan Cooperative. A court case in Kaski District is underway, accompanied by an arrest warrant that has left Rai incommunicado.

The situation has cast a shadow over the future of Galaxy TV. Despite Rai’s expressed desire to continue the channel with a smaller team, the challenge lies in settling the outstanding salaries of the staff. The once-promising television venture now stands at a crossroads, reflecting the volatile nature of Nepal’s media landscape and the perils that accompany ambitious undertakings.