Veteran actor Sunil Thapa, known for his work in Indian and Nepalese cinema, has died at the age of 68 in Kathmandu.
According to several media reports, Sunil Thapa returned from a shoot and went to sleep. He was found unconscious the next morning. On arrival at the hospital, he was declared dead. The cause of death is reported to be cardiac arrest.
As per the hospital authorities, the actor was undergoing treatment after his health suddenly deteriorated.
The officials told the local media that Sunil Thapa was brought to the hospital in an unconscious state, and he was declared dead due to suspected cardiac arrest after an ECG.
Many celebs and social media users have taken to social media and expressed heartfelt condolences.
Priyanka Chopra, who has worked with him in the film Mary Kom, reminisced about how co-star Sunil Thapa helped her during her tough time
Remembering the late actor for his kindness, Priyanka Chopra wrote on her Instagram handle, "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 it. Your warm hugs and your laugh will always be part of my memories. Gone too young but never forgotten. Thank you for your kindness at a time that I was broken.."
Offering her condolences to the family and loved ones of Sunil Thapa, she added, "Rest in peace Sunil Thapa...My condolences and prayers are with the family and loved ones."
More recently, he appeared as David Khuzou in Manoj Bajpayee's The Family Man Season 3, essaying the character of a respected leader and MCA chief in Nagaland.
He had shared a post with Manoj Bajpayee after filming The Family Man 3. The caption read, "I had an incredible experience shooting in Nagaland for #TheFamilyMan, alongside the phenomenal Mr. @bajpayee.manoj and Mr. @daliptahil. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to my Nagamese teacher, Mr Tia. Thank you, everyone, for the love and support!"
Mohan Niraula, President of Film Artists Association of Nepal, told the news agency that the veteran actor passed away due to a cardiac problem.
"We are awaiting his family members, who reside in Mumbai, to perform his last rites," he shared.
Nepal's Prime Minister Sushila Karki also mourned the loss of the actor.
"With his passing, the Nepali and Indian film industries have lost not only a versatile artist but also a strong pillar," she said in a statement.
Before starting his tenure as an actor, Sunil Thapa worked as a model in Mumbai in the mid-1970s. He was also actively involved in sports and even played professional football for clubs in Bombay.
