Veteran Nepali actor Sunil Thapa, who passed away on Friday and the industry is mourning his loss. Known for his extensive body of work across Nepali, Bhojpuri and Bollywood cinema, Thapa was also part of Priyanka Chopra’s 2014 biopic ‘Mary Kom’. He was known for Manoj Bajapyee starrer ‘The Family Man 3’ as well. News of his demise deeply affected Priyanka, who shared a heartfelt tribute remembering his compassion and support during a difficult phase of her life.On Saturday, Priyanka Chopra took to Instagram to post a video montage of moments she shared with Thapa on the sets of ‘Mary Kom’. In the film, she portrayed boxer Mary Kom, while Thapa played her coach, Narjit Singh. Expressing her grief, Priyanka wrote, “You will always be my Coach Sir. You kept me together when I had just lost my dad. You loved me and helped me through many tough days without even realising. Your warm hugs and your laugh will always be part of my memories. Gone too young but never forgotten.”She added, “Thank you for your kindness at a time that I was broken. Rest in peace Sunil Thapa My condolences and prayers are with the family and loved ones.”According to The Kathmandu Post, Sunil Thapa passed away on Friday morning while undergoing treatment at Norvic Hospital in Thapathali, Kathmandu, after his health suddenly worsened. He was 68 years old. Reports state that he was brought to the hospital unconscious, and an ECG conducted at 7:44 am confirmed his death.With a career spanning over four decades and more than 300 films to his credit, Sunil Thapa became an iconic figure in Nepali cinema. His work also extended to Bhojpuri and Hindi films. He made his acting debut with the Hindi film ‘Ek Duuje Ke Liye in 1981’ and later appeared in Bollywood projects such as ‘Aaj Ki Awaaz’, ‘Manav Hatya’ and ‘Albela’.More recently, Thapa made a brief appearance in ‘The Family Man’ season 3, where he played ‘David Khuzou’, a respected leader and MCA Chief in Nagaland. Following the news of his death, actor Manoj Bajpayee also paid tribute, fondly recalling their time together on the show. “It’s so so sad! God bless your soul sir! My 3rd season TFM memories will live forever because of you!” he wrote.
