Actor Priyanka Chopra has expressed heartfelt condolences on the passing of her co-star Sunil Thapa, who died on February 7 at the age of 68. Remembering their time together during the filming of Mary Kom, Chopra described Thapa as a source of emotional strength when she was grieving the loss of her father.
Taking to Instagram, Chopra shared a moving note recalling how Thapa, who played her coach in the 2014 sports biopic Mary Kom, helped her cope during one of the most challenging periods of her life. Her father, Ashok Chopra, passed away in June 2013 after a long battle with cancer.
‘You will always be my Coach Sir’
In her tribute, Chopra wrote that Thapa “kept me together” at a time when she felt broken, adding that his warmth, kindness and laughter would always remain a part of her memories. She referred to him as “Coach Sir” and said he offered support without even realising how much it meant to her.
She also extended her prayers and condolences to Thapa’s family and loved ones, noting that while he was “gone too young”, he would never be forgotten.
A towering figure in Nepali cinema
Sunil Thapa was a celebrated name in Nepali cinema, having appeared in over 300 films across several decades. He rose to prominence with his iconic role as Ratey Kaila in Chino and became widely recognised for portraying powerful antagonists. His commanding screen presence made him one of the most sought-after actors in the industry.
Thapa made his Bollywood debut in Ek Duuje Ke Liye in 1981 and went on to work in Hindi, Tamil and Bhojpuri films. He also appeared in the third season of The Family Man, playing a respected leader from Nagaland.
Before entering films, Thapa worked as a model in Mumbai and was actively involved in sports, including professional football. His passing marks the end of a remarkable and influential career that spanned regional and national cinema.