Veteran Nepali actor Sunil Thapa, a familiar face across Nepali, Bollywood, and Bhojpuri cinema, passed away at the age of 68 on February 6, 2026, in Kathmandu. According to hospital sources, Thapa died while undergoing treatment for a suspected heart attack at Norvic International Hospital, Thapathali. His death has sent shockwaves through the South Asian film industry, prompting heartfelt tributes from fellow actors, filmmakers, and fans, including Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Manoj Bajpayee.
Key Highlights
Sunil Thapa died on February 6, 2026, in Kathmandu at the age of 68
Cause of death reported as a suspected heart attack
Passed away while receiving treatment at Norvic Hospital, Thapathali
Tributes poured in from Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Manoj Bajpayee
Thapa worked across Nepali, Bollywood, and Bhojpuri industries
What Happened: Sunil Thapa’s Final Days
Sunil Thapa was admitted to Norvic International Hospital in Kathmandu after experiencing severe cardiac complications. Despite medical intervention, doctors were unable to revive him. Hospital officials confirmed that the actor suffered a suspected cardiac arrest during treatment on Thursday morning.
Thapa’s family later released a brief statement confirming his passing and thanking fans and well-wishers for their prayers. Funeral arrangements were held privately in Kathmandu, attended by close family members and prominent figures from Nepal’s film fraternity.
Industry observers noted that Thapa had remained professionally active in recent years, making his sudden demise particularly shocking.
Tributes from Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Manoj Bajpayee
The news of Sunil Thapa’s death triggered an outpouring of emotion from colleagues who had worked closely with him.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who starred alongside Thapa in the 2014 biographical film Mary Kom, shared a tribute video recalling their time together on set. In her message, she wrote,
“You will always be my Coach Sir. You kept me together when I had just lost my dad. Your warm hugs and your laugh will always stay with me.”
She further added that Thapa supported her emotionally during one of the most difficult phases of her life following the death of her father, Ashok Chopra, in 2013.
Actor Manoj Bajpayee, who recently worked with Thapa on the upcoming season of The Family Man, also expressed grief. Sharing a post on social media, Bajpayee wrote,
“It’s so, so sad. God bless your soul, sir. My third season of The Family Man will live forever because of you.”
A fan reacting online wrote, “Sunil Thapa brought dignity to every role. He was never loud, yet always unforgettable.”
Why Sunil Thapa’s Death Matters to Cinema
Sunil Thapa was more than a character actor. Over decades, he became a cultural bridge between Nepali cinema and mainstream Indian entertainment. Starting with his Bollywood debut in Ek Duuje Ke Liye, Thapa went on to play impactful supporting roles that added emotional depth to major productions.
Media analysts believe Thapa’s career reflected the growing collaboration between South Asian film industries. His portrayal of Mary Kom’s coach M. Narjit Singh remains one of the most respected performances in sports biopics, praised for its restraint and authenticity.
Critics often described him as “an actor who elevated scenes without demanding attention.”
Career Context and Legacy
Born and raised in Nepal, Sunil Thapa rose to prominence in Nepali cinema before successfully transitioning to Indian films and television. He later appeared in Bhojpuri productions and high-profile streaming projects, including The Family Man.
Unlike many of his contemporaries, Thapa avoided stardom-driven roles, instead choosing characters rooted in realism. His longevity in the industry highlighted the demand for seasoned performers capable of grounding big-budget narratives.
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What Happens Next
Sunil Thapa is survived by his family, who have requested privacy during their time of grief. Film associations in Nepal and India are expected to hold memorial events in the coming days. Several filmmakers have indicated plans to dedicate upcoming projects to his memory, ensuring his contributions remain part of cinematic history.
FAQs
Who was Sunil Thapa?
Sunil Thapa was a veteran Nepali actor known for his work in Nepali cinema, Bollywood films, Bhojpuri projects, and Indian web series. He gained widespread recognition for playing Mary Kom’s coach in the 2014 biopic Mary Kom.
When did Sunil Thapa pass away?
Sunil Thapa passed away on February 6, 2026, while undergoing treatment at Norvic International Hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal.
What was the cause of Sunil Thapa’s death?
According to hospital sources, Sunil Thapa died due to a suspected heart attack while receiving medical care.
Actors Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Manoj Bajpayee shared emotional tributes, recalling their professional collaborations and personal memories with the late actor.
Why was Sunil Thapa significant to South Asian cinema?
Thapa played a key role in connecting Nepali and Indian cinema, delivering memorable performances that emphasized realism and emotional depth across multiple industries.
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