Alchi, a homegrown board game startup, is shifting gears—from a quiet cultural initiative to a game-changing name in Nepal’s emerging sports and entertainment ecosystem. Founded by Manish Shrestha and Kriti Shakya, Alchi recently scored big on Shark Tank Nepal Episode 6, securing Rs. 1 crore in exchange for 25% equity and Rs. 50 lakhs as a loan. But behind this investment lies something more powerful: a vision to turn traditional board games into a national sporting trend for families and communities.
Turning Culture into Competitive Fun
Alchi’s games don’t just sit on shelves they get people moving, thinking, competing, and bonding. Designed around Nepali and world cultures, these games promote learning, empathy, and play—all through friendly competition. It’s where tradition meets team spirit.
The founders say their aim is to “spark dialogue, laughter, and connection just like any great sport does.” Whether it’s a casual family weekend or a school event, Alchi games are built to be both educational and competitive.
Why “Alchi” Isn’t Lazy at All
Despite its name meaning “lazy” in Nepali, Alchi champions smart play. The name is a tongue-in-cheek tribute to iconic minds like Einstein and Newton often labeled lazy, but always ahead of their time. The message? Leisure, when used wisely, creates room for creativity, strategy, and even greatness.
The Alchi Playbook
Alchi’s game lineup encourages:
- Quick-thinking and collaboration
- Cultural storytelling through gameplay
- Sportsmanship values like fairness, patience, and curiosity
Their games may not involve a ball or a bat, but the mental agility and team dynamics are no less intense.
What’s Next in the Game Plan?
Backed by Shark Cabinet funding, Alchi is prepping for the next big leap:
- Launching new games with richer narratives and faster-paced formats
- Expanding distribution across Nepal and into international markets
- Hosting community “Game Nights” and school competitions
- Partnering with institutions to promote learning-through-play models
More Than Just a Game—It’s a Movement
Alchi wants to redefine what sport and play mean in Nepal. With its unique mix of cultural storytelling and competitive structure, the company is building a new kind of playing field one where families huddle around a board instead of a screen, where curiosity scores points, and where every move brings people closer.
As Nepal embraces new forms of entertainment, Alchi is leading the charge one smart, cultural game at a time.
