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Kathmandu — Renowned Nepali actor Sunil Thapa, widely known for his iconic villain role “Rate Kaila,” has passed away at the age of 68. He died on Saturday morning due to cardiac arrest while undergoing treatment at Norvic Hospital, Thapathali.
Thapa, who had been residing in an apartment in Shankhamul, was rushed to the hospital after suddenly falling ill. Despite medical efforts, he passed away during treatment.
With a career spanning more than three decades, Thapa appeared in over 150 Nepali films. His most recent release was “Eklo,” which premiered on December 2 (Poush 17). Remarkably, he was actively filming the action movie “Ram Naam Satya” until late Friday night, making it his final film project.
Thapa gained international recognition through the 2014 Bollywood film “Mary Kom,” where he portrayed the boxing coach of actress Priyanka Chopra. The role earned him acclaim as a powerful character actor in Indian cinema. Just weeks ago, his Hindi web series “The Family Man – Season 3” was released on an OTT platform.
In Nepali cinema, Thapa was best known for his villainous roles in films such as “Lobhi Papi,” “Darpan Chhaya,” “Mukhiya,” “Seto Bagh,” “Balidan,” “Chino,” “Nepali Babu,” and “Thuldaai.”
In recent years, alongside acting, he had been contributing to film education through the Everest Film Academy in Kathmandu.
Thapa’s passing marks the end of a significant era in Nepali cinema. Tributes have poured in from filmmakers and artists across the country, mourning the loss of a performer who carved a proud and lasting legacy. His last rites will be performed at Pashupati Aryaghat on Saturday evening.
