She was known for her contribution towards Nepali art, theatre, and girls’ empowerment; and for backstopping in democratic activities during the critical and raw era of social change and politics in Nepal.

It is said that once the then royal couple of Nepal asked her why she was not in Kathmandu acting as the hostess to her Prime Minister husband, and she responded that she had to give time to her dance center in Biratnagar.

[3] When Sushila Koirala was in Patna in India during the 1950s, she actively worked to establish a performing art institution there too.

[3][1] Sushila Koirala made use of her dancing skills to earn money for the family during difficult times of her husband's imprisonment after 15 December 1960.

[5][6] In 2007, Sushila Koirala was honoured with the Gangadevi Chaudhari Memorial Honor for "her contribution in women empowerment and awareness".