# Remembering Sunil Thapa: The Coach Who Inspired Mary Kom and Bollywood's Heartbreak **In a shocking loss to cinema, veteran actor Sunil Thapa, beloved for his role as Priyanka Chopra's coach in *Mary Kom*, passed away at 68 due to a suspected cardiac arrest.**[1][2][3][4] His sudden demise in Kathmandu has left fans and the film fraternity mourning a legend who bridged Nepali and Indian cinema.
*Mary Kom* poster – Sunil Thapa as the inspiring coach Narjit.[3]
Sunil Thapa's career spanned over four decades, with more than **300 films** in Nepali cinema alone, where he shone in iconic roles like Rate Kaila in the cult classic *Chino*.[1][3][4][6] Born in Dang, Nepal, on May 19, 1957, he started as a model and photojournalist in Mumbai before becoming a versatile force in Nepali, Bollywood, Bhojpuri, and even Tamil films.[3][4] His Bollywood breakthrough came with *Ek Duuje Ke Liye*, but it was his heartfelt portrayal of coach Narjit in the 2014 biopic *Mary Kom* that earned him a Filmfare nomination and widespread acclaim.[3][4] Priyanka Chopra herself shared a touching tribute, revealing how Thapa "kept me together when I lost my dad" during the filming of *Mary Kom*, highlighting his role as a real-life mentor on and off screen.[user query reference] Tributes poured in from across the industry: CINTAA mourned his dedication, noting he was shooting for *Ram Nam Satyo Ho* until late the night before his passing on February 7, 2026.[2] Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang praised his "powerful performances," while *Mirai* co-star Teja Sajja called him "supremely dedicated" and an inspiration who worked till his last breath.[2] Even recently, Thapa appeared as David Khuzou, a Nagaland leader, in *The Family Man Season 3*, sharing joyful set photos with Manoj Bajpayee.[1][3] What made Thapa unforgettable? His versatility—from menacing villains to supportive figures—combined with his off-screen contributions as chairperson of the Everest Film Academy.[1][4] Rushed unconscious to Norvic Hospital in Thapathali, Kathmandu, an ECG at 7:44 AM confirmed his passing, with funeral rites set for February 8.[1][2][4][6] Nepal and Bollywood have lost a pillar, but his legacy in films like *Prem Geet 3*, *Yo Maya Ko Sagar*, and *Eklo* endures.[1][4] His story reminds us how cinema's unsung heroes shape our favorites. Did Sunil Thapa's coach in *Mary Kom* move you? **Share your favorite memory in the comments below, or spread the word by sharing this post** – let's honor his incredible journey together!
Citations
1.https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/mary-kom-actor-sunil-thapa-passes-away-at-the-age-of-68/articleshow/128028964.cms
2.https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/veteran-actor-sunil-thapa-who-played-priyanka-chopras-coach-in-mary-kom-dies-at-68-101770461575846.html
3.https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/mary-kom-and-the-family-man-3-actor-sunil-thapa-dies-at-68-10965353
4.https://kathmandupost.com/national/2026/02/07/veteran-actor-sunil-thapa-passes-away
5.https://www.sunriseradio.com/news/bollywood-news/mary-kom-and-the-family-man-3-actor-sunil-thapa-dies-at-68/
6.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunil_Thapa
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