Priyanka Chopra pays tribute to his ‘coach-sir’ Sunil Thapa, recalls his support during her toughest days

Priyanka chopra sunil thappa

• Veteran Nepali actor Sunil Thapa dies at 68, tributes pour in from film industry
• Priyanka Chopra and Manoj Bajpayee share heartfelt memories of Thapa
• Thapa appeared in over 300 films and chaired the Everest Film Academy

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Veteran Nepali actor Sunil Thapa, best known in India for his memorable role as the boxing coach in the 2014 film Mary Kom, has died at the age of 68. The news of his passing on February 7, 2026 has prompted tributes from across the entertainment world, with co-stars and fans alike mourning the loss of a respected figure in South Asian cinema.

In a heartfelt social media post, Priyanka Chopra — who played the titular boxer in Mary Kom — paid tribute to Thapa, describing how he had been a source of kindness and strength during one of the hardest periods of her life.

In an emotional Instagram note, the 43-year-old wrote, "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. Your warm hugs and your laugh will always be part of my memories."

She further added, "Gone too young but never forgotten. Thank you for your kindness at a time that I was broken.”

The Mary Kom lead actor ended her note by saying, "Rest in peace Sunil Thapa. My condolences and prayers are with the family and loved ones."

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A post shared by Priyanka (@priyankachopra)

Sunil Thapa’s career spanned more than four decades, during which he appeared in over 300 films across Nepali, regional and Indian cinema. In Mary Kom, his portrayal of the disciplined yet encouraging coach brought emotional depth to the biographical sports drama and earned him recognition beyond Nepal’s borders. Outside Bollywood, Sunil Thapa was also known for his villainous roles and recent work in the acclaimed web series The Family Man Season 3, where he played a respected leader in Nagaland — a performance that showcased his versatility.

Also read: Veteran Nepali actor Sunil Thapa passes away at 68 in Kathmandu

Tributes have poured in from colleagues and fans alike. Actor Manoj Bajpayee, who worked with Thapa on The Family Man 3, shared his sorrow online, calling his memories from the set unforgettable and asking God to bless his soul. Beyond film and television, Sunil Thapa also served as chairman of the Everest Film Academy, helping nurture future generations of performers in Nepal.