Kathmandu. Actor Rajesh Hamal stated that the late artist Sunil Thapa was an important turning point in the history of Nepali cinema. Hamal shared this on the social media platform Facebook on Saturday.

He also mentioned that he dedicated his film journey to Thapa. He stated: ‘You are an important turning point in the history of Nepali cinema. I dedicate my film journey to you.’ He described Thapa as a wonderful colleague and noted that his passing has left an unfillable void.

Thapa passed away this morning due to a heart attack at Norvic Hospital in Thapathali. Thapa, who resided in an apartment in Shankhamul, had been active in both the Nepali and Indian film industries for a long time.

Thapa, who succeeded in bringing the role of the ‘villain’ in Nepali cinema the same level of discussion and respect as a hero, was popularly known as ‘Rate Kaila’.