Veteran actor Sunil Thapa, a towering figure in Nepali cinema and a familiar face to Indian audiences, has passed away at the age of 68. According to The Kathmandu Post, Thapa died on Friday morning 6th February, 2026 in Kathmandu, after his health suddenly deteriorated while he was undergoing treatment at Norvic Hospital. Hospital officials said he was brought in unconscious and an ECG confirmed his death, with suspected cardiac arrest as the cause.
Veteran Actor Sunil Thapa Passes Away At The Age Of 68
Sunil Thapa’s career spanned more than four decades, during which he appeared in over 300 films across multiple languages, including Nepali, Hindi, and regional Indian cinema. He first entered films with the Hindi movie Ek Duuje Ke Liye (1981) and later became a household name in Nepali cinema for his unforgettable portrayal of the villain Rate Kaila in the cult classic Chino, a role that cemented his reputation as one of Nepal’s most impactful character actors.
While many remember him for his powerful antagonist roles, Thapa also crossed borders with notable work in Indian cinema. Indian audiences fondly recall his performance as the coach M. Narjit Singh in the romantic biographical sports drama Mary Kom, where he shared screen space with Priyanka Chopra Jonas; the role earned him wider recognition and critical acclaim beyond Nepal. Throughout his long career, he was admired not only for his versatility but also for bringing emotional depth to nuanced roles that resonated with audiences of all ages.
Beyond acting, Sunil Thapa served as the chairperson of the Everest Film Academy, contributing to the growth and mentorship of emerging talent in Nepali cinema. His recent on-screen work included appearances in films like Eklo and a role in the acclaimed series The Family Man 3, starring Manoj Bajpayee as David Khuzou, reminding fans of his enduring presence and versatility even in his later years.
Sunil Thapa’s Glorious Career
News of his passing has sparked an outpouring of grief across Nepal and beyond, with tributes celebrating his rich legacy and profound influence on generations of actors, filmmakers and movie lovers. Many have highlighted how his intense performances and commanding screen presence helped redefine character roles in cinema.
Sunil Thapa’s departure marks the end of an era in South Asian cinema. As one of the most respected actors to emerge from Nepal, his work bridged cultures and captivated audiences across borders. More than a performer, he leaves behind a legacy of passion, dedication and unforgettable moments, a body of work that will continue to inspire artists and entertain viewers for years to come.
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Varsha Tiwari is a budding content writer passionate about Bollywood, pop culture, and the stories behind the spotlight. She enjoys breaking down trends, celebrity moments, and film narratives into engaging, reader-friendly content. Always curious and observant, she is currently pursuing a Master’s in Communication and Journalism. Outside of writing, she enjoys painting because storytelling doesn’t always need words to make an impact.
















