Sunil Thapa

Actor

Sunil Thapa

Born May 19, 1957 in Kathmandu, NepalDied February 7, 202648 films

Sunil Thapa ( May 19, 1957 - Feb 07, 2026) was a legendary figure in Nepali cinema, widely celebrated for his commanding presence and his iconic status as the industry’s most recognizable antagonist. He is best known by the moniker "Ratey Kaila," a character from the 1989 blockbuster film Chino that became a cultural phenomenon and redefined the role of the villain in Nepal. Before his rise to stardom, Thapa was a professional footballer and a photojournalist, diverse experiences that contributed to the intense physicality and charisma he brought to the screen.

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Beyond his massive success in Nepal, Thapa achieved significant acclaim in Bollywood, making him one of the most successful crossover actors from the region. While his Indian debut dates back to the 1981 classic Ek Duuje Ke Liye, he gained modern international recognition for his role as the coach in the biopic Mary Kom (2014), which earned him a Filmfare nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He remained a prolific artist until his passing in February 2026, contributing to major projects like The Family Man and mentoring the next generation of actors as the chairman of the Everest Film Academy.

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The best way into Sunil Thapa's work
Mary Kom posterFirst watchMary Kom20147.0as M. Narjit SinghA major role in one of the best-rated films of their career.A chronicle of the life of Indian boxer 'Mary Kom' who went through several hardships before audaciously accomplishing her ultimate dream.View film

Filmography

48 films as actor
  1. TBADon’t Sleep
  2. 2026Himalayan GoldRatey Dai
  3. 2026Pension Patta
  4. 2026Kumbh
  5. 2026Pahaad
  6. 2026Ram Naam Satya
  7. 2026Eklo-I
  8. 2025Maijharo
  9. 2025Anjila
  10. 2024Devwani
  11. 2023KaziBikash
  12. 2022Prem Geet 3
  13. 2019BhaireKaila Buwa
  14. 2019CaptainCoach
  15. 2018America Boys
  16. 2017GST - Galti Sirf Tumhari
  17. 2016Lakshya
  18. 201510 EndrathukullaGang's Lawyer
  19. 2014Mary KomM. Narjit Singh
  20. 2011ShreemanGuest Appearance
  21. 2010Gorkha Paltan
  22. 2010Pahilo Pahilo Maya
  23. 2009Mission PaisaSaran Dai
  24. 2008Papi Manchhe 2
  25. 2007Dewar BabuMitjuy
  26. 2005Papi Manchhe
  27. 2001Aafno Manchhe
  28. 2000Aago
  29. 1999Papi
  30. 1999Kanchha
  31. 1999Aafanta
  32. 1999Mato Bolchha
  33. 1999Paradeshi Kanchha
  34. 1998Gaunle
  35. 1998Sindoor Pote
  36. 1998Dharma Sankat
  37. 1996DaijoSpecial Appearance
  38. 1996Bhariya
  39. 1996Chhori Buhari
  40. 1994Jwala
  41. 1994Sadak
  42. 1994Paribhasha
  43. 1994Aparadh
  44. 1994Chahana
  45. 1993Deuki
  46. 1993Bhauju
  47. 1991ChinoRate Kaila / J. S. Babu
  48. 1981Ek Duuje Ke LiyeLibrarian
Sunil Thapa: Best Movies & Where to Start | NookFilm