Rabi Lamichhane started his career as a TV host. He became well-known for speaking out against corruption and unfairness. Because of his bold style and dedication to helping people, he became very popular in Nepal. Later, he left the media and started a political party. Soon, he became an important leader in the government. His story shows how media fame can lead to real political power and change in Nepal.
QUICK FACTS
- Full Name: Rabi Lamichhane
- Born: September 5, 1974, Nagarkot (raised in Chabahil, Kathmandu)
- Education: SLC from Bhrikuti Secondary School; high school at Vijaya Memorial School; attended Ratna Rajya Campus, Kathmandu, before moving to the US
- Early Career in the U.S.: Lived and worked in America (2007–2014/17), managing fast-food outlets like Subway and becoming a U.S. citizen
- Media Roles: TV presenter, investigative journalist, radio host, lyricist for Nepali songs
- Personal Life: First married to Isha Lamichhane; they had two daughters and later divorced. Married second wife Nikita Poudel (film producer, former Film Development Board Chair) in January 2019
From Radio Shows to Big TV Fame (Early 2000s–2013)
Rabi Lamichhane started his career by working on the radio and small television shows like Good Morning Kathmandu. Later, he moved to the United States, where he worked different jobs, like managing sandwich shops. But he wanted to do something for Nepal, so he came back home.
In 2013, he became very famous by hosting a talk show that lasted more than 62 hours without stopping. That set a world record. The show talked about Nepal’s culture and important issues, and many people watched it.
Speaking for the People (2013–2021)
After that, Rabi began hosting shows like Sidha Kura Janata Sanga, where he directly questioned leaders and discussed the problems people faced in their daily lives.
He showed stories about people being treated unfairly, especially in rural areas. He also exposed cheating and corruption in businesses and government offices. Many people liked how brave he was, though some disagreed with his methods.
Later, he moved his show to another TV channel called Galaxy 4K but continued his same direct and bold style.
Trouble with the Law
1) The Pudasaini Case (2019)
In 2019, a journalist named Shalikram Pudasaini died and left a video message blaming Rabi. Rabi was arrested for a short time but later found not guilty. This event made people talk about how media and mental health should be handled carefully. The case sparked nationwide debate and divided public opinion on Rabi’s role and responsibility.
2) Cooperative Fund Problem (2024)
In 2024, Rabi was linked to a money scandal. Some people said money from public savings groups (called cooperatives) was misused. The controversy has raised serious questions about political accountability and financial transparency in Nepal. His name and signature were found on some documents, but Rabi said he did nothing wrong. The investigation is still going on.
Starting a Political Party (2022–2023)
In 2022, Rabi left his media job and started a new political party called the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). He said he wanted to fix the country, not just talk about it.
In the election that year, his party did really well. Rabi himself won a seat in Parliament from Chitwan‑2 with a huge number of votes. He became Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister.
Citizenship Problem (2023)
In January 2023, the court said that Rabi had not correctly become a Nepali citizen again after having a U.S. passport. Because of that, he lost his government job and seat in Parliament.
But just two days later, he fixed the problem, gave up his U.S. passport, and officially got his Nepali citizenship back. In April, he ran for election again in Chitwan‑2 and won with 70% of the votes. That showed many people still believed in him.
Back in Government, But in Trouble Again (2024–2025)
In 2024, he returned as Home Minister. But in 2025, a court accused him of being involved in the misuse of 1.19 billion Nepali rupees from cooperatives. He was arrested and spent 84 days in detention before getting released on bail.
Now, he is suspended from Parliament while the court decides what really happened.
Different Opinions About Rabi Lamichhane
Some people see Rabi Lamichhane as a brave man who speaks for the public and fights corruption. As a result, they believe he is bringing real change.
On the other hand, others think he is more focused on becoming popular and that he uses the media to control how people see him.
Why Rabi Lamichhane Matters
- He showed that someone from TV can become a political leader.
- He started a new party that became popular very fast.
- His shows pushed leaders to be more honest.
- His citizenship case changed how the law looks at people with dual citizenship.
What Comes Next?
- Will the court find him guilty in the money case?
- Can he continue to lead his party and grow stronger in politics?
- Will people keep trusting him, or will his popularity fade?
Conclusion
Rabi Lamichhane’s story is full of success, big risks, and some serious challenges. From TV host to government minister, he has had a wild journey.
But now, all eyes are on him:
Will he become a real hero for Nepal or just another leader with big promises?
Time will tell, and Nepal is watching.
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