Daijiworld Media Network - Kathmandu

Kathmandu, Feb 8: Veteran actor Sunil Thapa, known for his roles in the Bollywood biopic Mary Kom and the popular web series The Family Man, passed away in Kathmandu on Saturday. He was 68.

According to hospital officials, Thapa was brought to Norvic Hospital in an unresponsive condition. Doctors conducted an electrocardiogram and later declared him dead, with a suspected cardiac arrest cited as the cause of death.

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang expressed deep grief over the actor’s demise. In a Facebook post, he said Sunil Thapa’s powerful performances, especially as Rate Kaila in Nepali cinema, left a lasting impact. He added that Thapa’s talent and legacy would continue to inspire future generations and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

With a career spanning several decades, Sunil Thapa worked across Nepali, Bollywood and Bhojpuri cinema. He rose to prominence with his portrayal of Rate Kaila in the acclaimed Nepali film Chino and later gained wider recognition through his supporting role in Mary Kom and his appearance in The Family Man series.

Several co-stars and colleagues took to social media to mourn his passing. Actress Priyanka Chopra, who worked with Thapa in Mary Kom, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, recalling his support and kindness during a difficult phase in her life. She described him as her “Coach Sir” and said his warmth and laughter would always remain in her memories.

Actor Manoj Bajpayee also paid tribute, writing on his Instagram Stories that Thapa’s presence made his memories from the third season of The Family Man unforgettable.

Sunil Thapa’s demise marks the loss of a respected and versatile actor whose contributions to cinema across languages earned him admiration and respect from audiences and peers alike.