Veteran Actor Sunil Thapa Dies at 68

Veteran actor Sunil Thapa died on Saturday, February 7, at the age of 68.

Thapa was rushed to Norvic Hospital in Thapathali on Saturday morning after he was found unconscious in his apartment, reported the state-owned Rastriya Samachar Samiti (RSS), citing Mohan Niraula, president of the Film Artists’ Association of Nepal. 

Doctors at the hospital confirmed that he died of a heart attack, Niraula said. “The hospital declared him dead after a preliminary examination,” he added.

The legendary actor had a long career across Nepali, Hindi and Bhojpuri film industries. Thapa was widely acclaimed for his portrayals of villainous roles, most notably the character ‘Rate Kaila’ in the Nepali film 'Chino'. He also played the role of Indian boxer Mary Kom’s coach in the biopic 'Mary Kom'.

Thapa is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter. His family members, who live in Mumbai, India, are reported to be on their way to Nepal. Thapa had been residing in an apartment in Shankhamul, Kathmandu.

(With inputs from RSS)