Sunjay Kapur, prominent industrialist and ex-husband of actor Karisma Kapoor, passed away on June 13 after suffering a cardiac arrest during a polo match at Delhi’s Jaipur Polo Ground. The 59-year-old chairman of automotive component giant Sona Comstar collapsed suddenly while participating in a charity polo event organized by the Indian Army. Medical teams present at the venue attempted resuscitation before rushing him to Delhi’s Army Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Kapur, an avid polo player, had been actively involved in the sport for over two decades and frequently participated in high-profile matches. His sudden demise sent shockwaves through business and entertainment circles, with colleagues describing the incident as “unthinkable” given his reputation as a fitness enthusiast.
A Life Bridging Industry and Bollywood Legacy:
Kapur’s career spanned both corporate leadership and high-society connections. As chairman of Sona Comstar, he oversaw the company’s transition into a global electric vehicle components supplier, which achieved a market capitalization of ₹33,000 crore during his tenure. His 2014–2016 divorce from Karisma Kapoor, granddaughter of Raj Kapoor and sister of Kareena Kapoor Khan, had been widely covered by Indian media, though the former couple maintained an amicable co-parenting relationship for their children, Samiera (21) and Kiaan (18).
Friends recalled Kapur’s ability to balance boardroom responsibilities with his passion for adventure sports. “He lived life at full throttle—whether negotiating mergers or riding at 30 km/h on the polo field,” said automotive executive Rakesh Sharma, who collaborated with Kapur for 15 years.
Family and Industry Mourn Sudden Loss:
Tributes poured in from across India’s corporate and entertainment sectors. Karisma Kapoor issued a brief statement through her team: “We request privacy during this difficult time as the family processes this immense loss.” Industry bodies including the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) flagged his contributions to automotive innovation, particularly in electric vehicle transmission systems.
Sona Comstar’s board announced emergency meetings to ensure leadership continuity, with independent director Gautam Sen noting: “Sunjay’s vision transformed us into a tech-driven global enterprise. We’re committed to honoring that legacy.” The company’s shares closed 1.2% lower on the BSE following news of his passing.
Reactions from the Polo and Social Circles:
The news of Sunjay Kapur’s passing deeply affected the polo community and Delhi’s social elite, many of whom had known him for decades as both a sportsman and philanthropist. Fellow players and friends recalled his unwavering commitment to promoting polo in India, often organizing charity matches and mentoring young talent. The Jaipur Polo Ground, where he played his final match, became a gathering place for mourners who shared stories of his generosity and competitive spirit. Social media was flooded with tributes from celebrities, business leaders, and sports personalities, all expressing shock and sadness at the sudden loss of a figure who seamlessly bridged the worlds of industry, sport, and society.
Final Rites and Lasting Legacy:
Kapur’s last rites were conducted privately at Delhi’s Lodhi Road Crematorium, attended by immediate family and close friends. His children released a joint statement emphasizing their father’s dedication to both family and business: “He taught us the value of perseverance and kindness in equal measure.”
As the automotive industry grapples with his untimely death, analysts highlight Kapur’s role in securing strategic partnerships with major automakers like Tesla and Mercedes-Benz. His passion project—a foundation promoting electric vehicle adoption in rural India—is expected to continue under family oversight. The polo community plans to dedicate next month’s National Championship to his memory, honoring a man who embodied India’s blend of industrial might and sporting spirit.
