Remembering Sunil Thapa Through His Six Iconic Films

Entertainment
The Buzz Nepal
February 9 , 2026

The late Sunil Thapa remains one of the most commanding and influential figures in Nepali cinema. Known for his intense screen presence, fearless choice of roles, and unmatched versatility, Thapa built a legacy that spanned decades and shaped the language of Nepali films, particularly in action and character-driven storytelling. As audiences remember the legendary actor, these five films stand out as defining chapters of his remarkable career.

Chino (1989)

No discussion of Sunil Thapa’s career is complete without Chino. His portrayal of the antagonist Raate Kaila became one of the most iconic villain roles in Nepali cinema. The character’s raw aggression, emotional depth, and unforgettable dialogue set a new benchmark for negative roles. Chino not only elevated Thapa’s career but also changed how villains were written and performed in Nepali films.

Prem Geet 3 (2022)

In Prem Geet 3, Sunil Thapa brought a sense of authority and emotional weight that grounded the film’s grand narrative. While the film was known for its scale, visuals, and romance, Thapa’s character stood out for its measured intensity and dignity. His presence added gravitas to the storyline, making key emotional moments more believable and impactful. Audiences responded strongly to his performance, proving once again that even in large ensemble casts, Thapa had the rare ability to command attention without overpowering the story.

Border (1999)

In Border, Sunil Thapa delivered one of his most restrained yet powerful performances. Set against the backdrop of conflict and patriotism, his character stood out because of the quiet strength and emotional gravity he brought to the role. Thapa avoided overstatement; instead, his controlled expressions, disciplined posture, and intense silences gave the character credibility and weight. Audiences connected deeply with his portrayal, and it remains one of the reasons Border is remembered as a serious, impactful war drama rather than just another action film.

Mary Kom (2014)

Sunil Thapa’s role as Narjit Singh, Mary Kom’s coach, in the Bollywood biopic Mary Kom showcased a completely different dimension of his acting. Instead of aggression, he relied on restraint, warmth, and quiet authority. Thapa made the character memorable by portraying a mentor who balances discipline with compassion. His subtle expressions and grounded performance played a crucial role in shaping the emotional arc of the film, earning him international recognition and a Filmfare nomination, a historic moment for a Nepali actor in Hindi cinema.

Yo Maya Ko Sagar (2008)

Yo Maya Ko Sagar allowed Sunil Thapa to explore emotional depth in a romantic drama. His character became popular not through dominance or aggression, but through emotional maturity and realism. Thapa portrayed a man shaped by love, regret, and responsibility, making the character relatable to audiences across generations. His ability to convey pain and restraint through subtle acting elevated the film’s emotional core, helping it resonate strongly with viewers and cementing its place as a memorable romantic drama in Nepali cinema.

Eklo-I (2026)

In Eklo-I, Sunil Thapa appeared in what would turn out to be his final cinematic performance, bringing his signature presence to Nepal’s ambitious foray into science fiction. Set in a dystopian future and noted as one of the first Nepali sci-fi films to be showcased internationally, Eklo-I features Thapa among a large ensemble cast navigating the film’s high-stakes narrative.

A Legacy That Endures

Sunil Thapa’s filmography is vast, but these five films capture the essence of his impact. Whether as a villain, authority figure, or complex character, Thapa left an indelible mark on Nepali cinema.

Though he is no longer with us, his performances continue to live on, inspiring new generations of actors and reminding audiences of a time when presence alone could define a film.