The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of veteran Nepali actor Sunil Thapa, who passed away on February 6, 2026, at the age of 68 due to a cardiac episode. Thapa, known for his extensive work in Nepali cinema and his role as Priyanka Chopra Jonas' boxing coach in the 2014 film "Mary Kom," is being fondly remembered by colleagues and fans alike.

Omung Kumar, the director of "Mary Kom," has shared his memories of working with Thapa, recalling the actor's significant impact on Priyanka Chopra during the film's production. Kumar stated that Thapa became a father figure to Chopra, especially after the loss of her father, Ashok Chopra, just before the commencement of filming in 2013.

Kumar reminisced about the search for the perfect actor to portray Mary Kom's coach, saying they needed someone with the right physique and a very expressive face. He recalled watching a video of Sunil Thapa, describing him as a superstar from Nepal, and immediately knowing he was the right fit for the role. Kumar also remembered Thapa from the 1981 film "Ek Duuje Ke Liye". According to Kumar, casting Thapa felt like destiny, noting that a sketch he had made of the coach two years prior to meeting Thapa bore a striking resemblance to the actor.

Thapa's connection to Bollywood dates back to 1981 with "Ek Duuje Ke Liye," and he went on to become a prominent figure in the Nepali film industry, eventually securing notable roles in Bollywood and Bhojpuri cinema. Besides "Mary Kom," Thapa also played David Khuzou in the spy thriller TV series, "The Family Man". In Nepali cinema, he was known for playing villainous characters.

"Mary Kom," a biographical sports film, showcased Mary Kom's journey to becoming a boxer and her victory at the 2008 World Boxing Championships. Directed by Omung Kumar and produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the film starred Priyanka Chopra in the lead role, with Darshan Kumar playing her husband. Chopra underwent extensive physical training for four months to embody the role of Mary Kom, learning the sport and Kom's distinct boxing style. The film also marked Chopra's Hindi playback singing debut with the song "Chaoro".

Sunil Thapa's passing is a significant loss to both the Nepali and Indian film industries. His contribution to "Mary Kom" and his impact on Priyanka Chopra serve as a testament to his talent and his ability to connect with people on a personal level.