Sunil Thapa, Renowned Actor and Priyanka Chopra’s Coach in Mary Kom, Passes Away at 68

Sunil Thapa, the esteemed Nepali actor known for his impactful performances, has passed away at the age of 68 following a cardiac arrest in Kathmandu.

His death was confirmed by the Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) on February 7, 2026. Thapa gained recognition for his villainous roles and most notably played Priyanka Chopra's coach in the biopic Mary Kom.

Condolences from Sikkim's Chief Minister

The Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang, expressed his sadness over Thapa's passing on social media, highlighting his significant contributions to Nepali cinema. He wrote, “Deeply saddened by the passing of veteran actor Shri Sunil Thapa... His talent and legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists.”

CINTAA also paid tribute, stating, “We mourn the passing of veteran actor Mr. Sunil Thapa. He remained dedicated to his craft till the very end.” His funeral rites are scheduled for February 8, 2026.

A Lasting Legacy

Thapa's career spanned over 300 films, with his role as 'Rate Kaila' in the film Chino being particularly memorable. Recently, he appeared in the popular series The Family Man Season 3. His co-star from Mirai, Teja Sajja, shared heartfelt condolences, emphasizing Thapa's dedication and impact on the industry.

Born on May 17, 1957, Thapa's contributions to film will be remembered fondly by fans and peers alike. His passion for acting endured until his last days, leaving behind a robust legacy in both Nepali and Indian cinema.