Collaboration Between Nepal Kabaddi League and ‘NepHopko Shripach’ Reality Show Announced

The Nepal Kabaddi League (NKL) has entered into a partnership with the reality show ‘NepHopko Shripach,’ under which the upcoming season will feature a blend of kabaddi and hip-hop music. NKL Season 2 is set to commence on June 5 at the RAAHEP Covered Hall in Tripureshwor, with six franchise teams competing. Over 100 foreign players from 16 countries have registered, and teams will select players through a draft system.

This collaboration covers NKL Season 2 and the third season of ‘NepHopko Shripach.’ The memorandum of understanding was signed on Friday in Kathmandu between Astronics Management, the league organizer, and Sudip Pokharel, the founder of the show. Vikas Agrawal, CEO of Astronics, highlighted that this partnership would add a new dimension by linking sports and entertainment. He stated, “The collaboration between NKL and NepHop is ushering in a new era in Nepal, transforming how sports and entertainment are perceived. We are building a movement where the power of kabaddi and the voice of hip-hop will forge a new narrative. Kabaddi will no longer be just a sport, but the voice of youth, cultural energy, and a fresh identity for the nation.”

Founder Sudip Pokharel emphasized that this is the first time a reality show and a sports league have partnered in such a way, creating new opportunities for both artists and players. According to him, rappers from the show will compose anthems for NKL teams, injecting additional energy into the games. Judges of ‘NepHopko Shripach,’ Byoma and Manas Ghale, were also present at the event and said that this collaboration would benefit both the music and sports industries. Byoma also composed the anthem for NKL Season 2.

In Season 2, the competing teams are Biratnagar Bahubali, Janakpur Knights, Kathmandu Mavericks, Pokhara Lakers, Butwal Bulls, and Dhangadhi Wildcats. As per the agreement, ‘NepHopko Shripach’ contestants will create anthems for various teams, with winners eligible for cash prizes. Amitkumar Begani, head of Astronics Management, noted that some of the world’s best players are eager to come to Nepal to compete in NKL Season 2. To date, over 100 foreign players from 16 countries have registered, and teams will choose players through the upcoming draft process.