Kathmandu, Nepal — February 7, 2026: Veteran Nepali actor Sunil Thapa — loved across Nepal and India for his commanding screen presence — passed away at the age of 68 on Friday morning. He died while receiving treatment at Norvic Hospital in Thapathali, Kathmandu, after his health suddenly deteriorated, with preliminary reports pointing to cardiac arrest as the cause of death.
Who Was Sunil Thapa?
Born in the hills of Nepal, Sunil grew up loving stories and stages. He jumped into acting over 40 years back, around the 1980s. Small roles first, then boom – he became the go-to guy for strong, memorable parts. Over 300 films! That's like making a movie every two weeks for decades.
He wasn't just Nepal's star. Bollywood called too. And web shows. A true cross-border talent who made borders feel small.
Iconic Mary Kom Coach Role
Remember Priyanka Chopra punching her way to glory in Mary Kom (2014)? Sunil was her coach, Narjit Singh. That stern look, pushing her harder – pure magic. He brought real grit to the screen, making you believe every sweat drop.
The film told boxer Mary Kom's real fight story. Sunil's part, though small, stuck with everyone. Priyanka might tweet soon; fans hope so. It put Nepali faces in Indian homes.
How Sunil Thapa died
Veteran actor Sunil Thapa died after suffering a sudden health emergency while being treated at a hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal. According to multiple reliable reports, he collapsed due to a suspected heart attack (cardiac arrest) and was unconscious when brought to Norvic Hospital in Thapathali. Doctors performed an **ECG early on the morning of February 7, 2026, which confirmed his passing.
Rate Kainla: Nepal's Favorite Villain
In Nepal, kids hid behind sofas when Rate Kainla showed up. This character from Chino and other hits was rough, smart, unbeatable. Sunil owned it – deep voice, sharp eyes, total boss.
He played Rate in many movies, like a superhero but bad guy style. Fans dressed as him for fun. It defined Nepali cinema's action era.
Full List of Must-Watch Sunil Thapa Movies
Here's a table of his top picks. From Nepal hits to India crossovers.
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#MaryKom Actor #SunilThapa, Who Played #PriyankaChopra's Coach, Dies At 68 While Undergoing Treatment At #Kathmandu Hospitalhttps://t.co/wHWKww1pEg
— Free Press Journal (@fpjindia) February 7, 2026
Mary Kom Coach Role: Crossing Borders into Bollywood Fame
While Thapa’s legacy in Nepali cinema was already formidable, Indian audiences came to recognize him globally for his role as the boxing coach in the Bollywood biographical drama Mary Kom (2014), starring Priyanka Chopra.
His performance received critical praise and earned him a nomination for a Filmfare Award, bringing international attention to his talent.
This cross-border success cemented Thapa’s place in South Asian cinema history, transforming him into a familiar face for both Nepali and Indian movie lovers.
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