Launch of OTT Platform 'UNA Digital' in Kathmandu: What will be Broadcasted Initially

Kathmandu. A new Nepali OTT platform, 'UNA Digital,' has been launched in Nepal. Minister for Communication and Information Technology Jagdish Kharel and Chairman of the Film Development Board Dinesh DC inaugurated the OTT platform during an event held in Kathmandu yesterday (Saturday).

With this launch, a facility has begun for audiences who have missed watching films and series in theaters to view them through the OTT platform. Confidence has been expressed that this initiative will expand its reach into the global market.

The CEO of the company, as well as a film distributor and producer, is Ujwal Guragain. According to him, viewers will be able to watch films, shows, and original series on this OTT platform starting February 1 (Magh 18). CEO Guragain stated that starting February 1, users will be able to access the app on Apple's iOS and Google Play Store, as well as on browser and TV versions.

He said, "We have started this OTT platform. It will protect Nepali films and producers. It will not let them sink. That is why this new era has been initiated."

It was informed that through this OTT, viewers can expect the release of Ashish Dhakal's series 'Sambandha Timro Mero' and 'Crime in Story,' as well as actor Salon Basnet's film 'Room Number 8.' The production team is set to release this film produced by Salon Basnet as the first movie on the OTT platform.

Similarly, 'Real Rhythm,' which is being produced by CEO Guragain himself, will be featured on the OTT. Other series produced by the company such as 'Choice,' 'Cinepat News,' 'Chelibeti' hosted by Ayusha Maharjan, and 'Kathmandu Night' will also be broadcasted.

The production team is preparing to bring content gradually with separate 'OTT windows' for Nepal and abroad. According to CEO Guragain, the full rollout will begin from February 14, and information regarding subscription fees will be provided soon.

Chairman of the Board Dinesh DC congratulated the opening of the OTT and stated that a good work has begun.

"We creative people are like birds," he said, using an analogy. "Even when one bird brushes against another in the sky, they have their own flights. UNA's flight has started from here, and I wish this flight all the best."

Actor and producer Deepak Raj Giri, who arrived at the event to offer his wishes, stated that such OTT platforms are very necessary for filmmakers and congratulated the team on the launch.

He said, "Such platforms are a great necessity for us filmmakers. Abroad, a producer earns more from such OTT platforms than they do from cinema halls. Therefore, as our industry moves forward, the arrival of such platforms will further increase the environment for producers and directors to invest."

He congratulated the entire OTT team. During the ceremony, Communication Minister Kharel stated that UNA Digital OTT must be able to meet the changing technical dimensions and audience interests. He argued that it is good to change with the times.

"I believe this will play an important role in making it global," he said. "The thing our audience and the public around the world seek is content. Whether you make films, news, television programs, interviews, or anything else, the most important thing is content." He suggested that if the OTT platform has good content, it will run well.

This OTT is set to go into operation with an initial investment of 60 million rupees in content. Additionally, CEO Guragain stated that besides Nepali language, content from India, Bangladesh, and Japan will also be released gradually on this platform.