The film world is mourning the loss of actor Sunil Thapa, a performer whose presence may have been subtle, but whose influence was profound across Nepali cinema, Bollywood, and the Indian streaming scene. The seasoned actor passed away on February 6, 2026, reportedly from a heart attack while receiving treatment in Kathmandu. He was 68 years old. As the news of his passing spread, heartfelt tributes began to flood in, especially from actors who had worked closely with him and shared personal stories that revealed the man behind the roles.
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Join Telegram ChannelPriyanka Chopra, who starred alongside Sunil Thapa in Mary Kom, remembered him not just as a fellow actor but as a steadfast supporter during one of the toughest times in her life. She shared a tribute video filled with cherished moments from their time together, referring to him as her “Coach Sir,” a title that meant so much more than just a role on set. Priyanka recalled how Sunil Thapa was there for her emotionally after her father passed away in 2013, a time when she was still grappling with her grief while trying to keep up with her work. Her words were filled with warmth and gratitude, highlighting a bond that clearly went beyond the professional realm.
She spoke of his kindness, his comforting presence, and how he quietly helped her find strength on days when she felt utterly broken. The memories she shared painted a vivid picture of a man who didn’t crave the spotlight but instead offered steadfast support, someone whose hugs and laughter became a wellspring of strength. Calling his passing a tragic loss, Priyanka Chopra expressed that he would forever remain in her heart and extended her condolences to his family and loved ones.
Sunil Thapa played a crucial role as the coach in Mary Kom, delivering a performance that truly resonated with audiences due to its emotional depth and authenticity. The film was shot shortly after Priyanka Chopra experienced the loss of her father, leading to a brief pause in production to give her time to mourn. When filming picked back up, Sunil Thapa’s character emerged as one of the film’s emotional cornerstones, reflecting genuine compassion through his portrayal.
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Manoj Bajpayee also expressed his sorrow, recalling Sunil Thapa as a fellow actor from the thriller series The Family Man. He shared a brief yet heartfelt message, conveying his sadness over the news and noting that the upcoming season of the show would forever serve as a tribute to Sunil Thapa’s contributions. His words were filled with quiet respect, honoring the late actor’s impact without any unnecessary dramatics, much like the performances Sunil Thapa was celebrated for.
Sunil Thapa began his journey in Hindi cinema with his debut in Ek Duuje Ke Liye and went on to carve out a career that spanned various industries and languages. He was a well-known face in Nepali films and Bhojpuri cinema, often infusing a sense of grounded realism into his characters. While he may not have been a regular in the headlines, his work spoke volumes, earning him admiration from both peers and audiences.
As tributes continue to pour in, Sunil Thapa is being remembered not just for the roles he portrayed, but for the quiet dignity he embodied, the guidance he provided, and the lives he touched in subtle ways. In an industry often dominated by noise and attention, his legacy serves as a reminder that sometimes the most profound impacts are made without raising one’s voice.
