KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 7 Veteran actor Sunil Thapa passed away on Friday at the age of 68 after suffering a heart attack, according to the Film Artists Association. Association President Mohan Niraula said Thapa was found unconscious in his sleep early this morning and was immediately rushed to Norvic Hospital, Thapathali. He was declared dead following a preliminary medical examination. A respected figure in the film industry, Thapa had a long career spanning both Nepali and Indian cinema. He was especially known among Nepali audiences for his popular character 'Rate Kainla.' Internationally, he also appeared as the coach of Indian actress Priyanka Chopra in the biographical film 'Mary Kom', based on the life of India's champion boxer. Thapa had been residing in an apartment in Shankhamul, Kathmandu. He is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter. His family members, who currently live in Mumbai, India, are reported to be on their way to Nepal.