In a deeply shocking turn of events, industrialist and socialite Sunjay Kapur, aged 53, passed away due to a heart attack during a polo match in England on June 12, 2025. The tragic incident has sent ripples across the business and entertainment circles, especially due to his high-profile past marriage with Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor and his role as the former chairman of Sona Comstar, a leading global automotive systems manufacturer.
This blog takes an in-depth look at who Sunjay Kapur was, the circumstances surrounding his sudden demise, reactions from the Kapoor family and industry peers, and his legacy in the Indian corporate world.
🏇 Sudden Death During Polo Match: What Happened?
Sunjay Kapur was participating in a friendly polo match in Surrey, England, when he reportedly collapsed mid-game. Eyewitnesses said the businessman had complained of mild uneasiness before the incident. Emergency services rushed to the scene, but he was declared dead on arrival at a nearby hospital.
A Strange Twist: Bee Sting Incident?
Unconfirmed reports suggest that Kapur may have inhaled or swallowed a bee during the match, possibly triggering a severe allergic reaction or anaphylactic shock that led to the fatal heart attack. While medical investigations are still underway, this theory has captured public attention due to its tragic irony and rarity.
👤 Who Was Sunjay Kapur?
Born into an affluent business family, Sunjay Kapur was the son of auto industry veteran Dr. Surinder Kapur, who founded the Sona Group. Following in his father’s footsteps, Sunjay led Sona Koyo Steering Systems Ltd., and later Sona Comstar, contributing significantly to India’s rise in the global auto components sector.
Sunjay held an MBA from London Business School and was known for his strategic leadership style, global outlook, and passion for polo and equestrian sports. He often split his time between Mumbai, Delhi, and London.
💔 Personal Life: His Relationship With Karisma Kapoor
Sunjay Kapur married Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor in 2003, after a whirlwind romance that drew media attention. However, their relationship was marred by incompatibility and alleged personal differences. The couple had two children together—Samaira and Kiaan Raj.
In 2014, after over a decade of a tumultuous marriage, Karisma and Sunjay filed for divorce. Their separation was finalized in 2016. While the split remained highly publicized, both parties chose to maintain dignity in public, focusing on their respective lives and children.
💍 Second Marriage to Priya Sachdev
Post his divorce from Karisma Kapoor, Sunjay Kapur found love again with Priya Sachdev, a former model and entrepreneur. The two tied the knot in a private ceremony in 2017 and were often seen together at high-society events in Mumbai, London, and New York. The couple had a child together and appeared to be leading a peaceful family life until this sudden tragedy struck.
🏢 A Business Legacy to Remember
As Chairman of Sona Comstar, Sunjay Kapur transformed the company into a globally competitive automotive component manufacturer. Under his leadership, the firm made significant inroads in electric mobility, steering systems, and precision engineering. In 2021, Sona Comstar’s IPO was one of the most talked-about listings on the Indian stock market.
Sunjay also held key positions in trade associations and was seen as an ambassador for Indo-European business relations. His sudden demise leaves a vacuum in both corporate boardrooms and philanthropic circles.
🕯 Reactions from the Kapoor Family and Bollywood
While Karisma Kapoor has not made any public statement as of yet, sources close to the family say she is deeply shaken by the news. The actress is reportedly being comforted by her sister Kareena Kapoor Khan, brother-in-law Saif Ali Khan, and close friends Amrita Arora and Malaika Arora, who were spotted visiting her Mumbai residence on Thursday evening.
Industry Condolences:
- Shalini Passi, Delhi-based art patron and friend of the Kapur family, called the loss “unbelievable” and said, “It’s a brutal reminder that life can change in a moment.”
- Business leaders and CEOs across India paid tributes on LinkedIn, praising his visionary leadership and friendly demeanor.
- Karisma’s fans have flooded social media with messages of support, remembering her as a mother first in this tragic situation.
💡 A Reminder About Heart Health and Sudden Death
Sunjay Kapur’s untimely death at the age of 53 is yet another reminder of the silent dangers of heart disease—especially in high-stress professions. The fact that he was engaged in a physically demanding sport like polo makes it more poignant.
Cardiologists advise regular heart screenings for men over 40, especially those with demanding lifestyles, irregular schedules, or a history of smoking and alcohol consumption. Emotional stress, allergies, and extreme temperatures can also act as fatal triggers.
🌐 Social Media Tributes Pour In
The hashtag #SunjayKapur trended on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram as tributes poured in from business communities, old friends, and even former media associates. Many expressed shock, remembering him as a dignified, soft-spoken gentleman with a zest for life.
Screenshots of his recent Instagram posts, featuring photos from polo matches and family vacations, have gone viral. In one particularly heartbreaking quote posted just days ago, Kapur had written:
“Life is beautiful, but fleeting. Make every moment count.”
This now serves as a chilling reminder of life’s unpredictability.
✈️ Final Rites and Family Arrangements
While the family has not yet issued an official statement regarding the funeral or final rites, it is expected that Sunjay Kapur’s body will be flown back to India by next week. A memorial service in Delhi or Mumbai may be held, given the number of people wanting to pay their respects.
Security is expected to be tight, as prominent personalities from both the film and business world are likely to attend.
📌 Conclusion: A Life Cut Short, But Not Forgotten
Sunjay Kapur’s passing is a stark reminder that life can turn in an instant. Despite personal setbacks, public scrutiny, and health risks, he built a successful life as a business tycoon, family man, and sports enthusiast.
He leaves behind a legacy that blends industrial success with personal reinvention. His life was a reflection of resilience, and his sudden death a reminder to pause and cherish those we hold dear.
May his soul rest in peace, and may his loved ones find the strength to heal.