Sunil Thapa, one of the most memorable villains in Nepali cinema, has passed away at the age of 68 due to a heart attack. He died on Saturday morning at Norvic International Hospital in Thapathali. His final rites were performed at Pashupati Aryaghat on Sunday, after tributes were paid at the Film Development Board.
The strength of the role played by Thapa as a powerful figure of Rate Kaila in the 1989 film Chino made Thapa a household name. He played villain roles as no one could due to his tall stature, commanding voice, and intense expressions. In spite of his fearsome image on the screen, he was reputed to be calm, humble, and kind in real life.
Thapa has played over 300 movies in Nepali, Hindi, Bhojpuri, and Tamil languages and has had a career of over 30 years. He preferred to remain in Nepal because he loved the Nepali cinema, despite the chances of Bollywood.
Actors, filmmakers, and fans have expressed deep sorrow. In a tragic coincidence, Thapa had been shooting for a film until Friday night and planned to return the next morning—but he never woke up, leaving the industry in shock.