A Family United in Mourning
The Kapur family is navigating profound loss following the sudden death of Sunjay Kapur, a leading industrialist and former husband of actress Karisma Kapoor. On June 18, 2025, the family issued a formal press note announcing Sunjay’s funeral and prayer meet, signed by his mother, Rani Surinder Kapur; his wife, Priya Sachdev Kapur; his children with Karisma, Samaira and Kiaan; and his children with Priya, Safira and Azarias. Karisma’s presence in Delhi with her children for the last rites, accompanied by her sister Kareena Kapoor Khan and brother-in-law Saif Ali Khan, reflects a moment of solidarity, setting aside past differences to honor Sunjay’s memory.
Tragic Circumstances of Sunjay’s Passing
Sunjay Kapur, aged 53, passed away on June 12, 2025, in London during a polo match, a sport he passionately pursued. Reports indicate he suffered a fatal heart attack, possibly triggered by swallowing a bee, which may have caused an allergic reaction or anaphylactic shock. The unusual nature of his death, described as a “freak accident” by sources, stunned business and social circles. Legal formalities, complicated by Sunjay’s U.S. citizenship, delayed the repatriation of his remains, with post-mortem procedures and documentation in the UK extending the process. His body arrived in New Delhi on June 18, allowing the family to proceed with funeral arrangements.
Funeral and Prayer Meet Arrangements
The Kapur family’s press note, shared widely on social media, outlined the following arrangements for Sunjay’s final farewell:
- Cremation:
📍 Lodhi Road Cremation Ground, New Delhi
🗓 Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 5:00 PM - Prayer Meet:
📍 Taj Palace Hotel, New Delhi
🗓 Sunday, June 22, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
The note included a verse from the Guru Granth Sahib, reflecting Sikh values of devotion and legacy: “Those who meditate on the Name and live life with effort, Nanak says, their faces shine brightly, and many are liberated alongside them.” The inclusion of Samaira and Kiaan’s signatures alongside those of Sunjay’s mother, wife, and other children highlights a collective tribute, resonating with the verse’s message of unity and remembrance.
Karisma Kapoor’s Presence in Delhi
On June 19, Karisma Kapoor was spotted at Mumbai’s private airport, dressed in a white salwar suit, accompanied by Samaira, 19, and Kiaan, 13, both in traditional white attire. The trio traveled to Delhi to attend Sunjay’s last rites, a gesture of respect for their father’s memory. Kareena Kapoor Khan and Saif Ali Khan followed shortly after, also heading to Delhi to support Karisma during this somber occasion. Videos shared by paparazzi captured the family’s grief-stricken demeanor, with Karisma maintaining a low profile. Their presence underscores the importance of family ties, even after the complexities of divorce, in honoring Sunjay’s legacy for their children.
Sunjay Kapur’s Life and Legacy
Sunjay Kapur was a towering figure in India’s automotive industry, serving as chairman of Sona Comstar, a leading manufacturer of components for electric vehicles. An alumnus of The Doon School and the University of Buckingham, he took over the company from his father, Dr. Surinder Kapur, and expanded its global footprint. Beyond business, Sunjay was an avid polo player, competing in elite tournaments like the Queen’s Cup in London and maintaining a close friendship with Prince William. His final social media post, hours before his death, expressed condolences for victims of an Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, reflecting his empathy: “My thoughts and prayers are with all the families affected. May they find strength in this difficult hour.”
Sunjay’s personal life was marked by three marriages. His first, to fashion designer Nandita Mahtani from 1996 to 2000, ended amicably. He married Karisma Kapoor in 2003, and they welcomed Samaira in 2005 and Kiaan in 2010 before separating in 2014 and divorcing in 2016. Despite a contentious split, they co-parented effectively, with Karisma gaining custody and Sunjay retaining visitation rights. In 2017, Sunjay married Priya Sachdev, a fashion stylist and entrepreneur, with whom he had a son, Azarias, and welcomed Priya’s daughter, Safira, from her previous marriage. Sunjay is survived by his mother, wife, and four children.
A Community in Grief
Sunjay’s death has reverberated across India’s business, sports, and entertainment spheres. Sona Comstar issued a statement mourning his loss, affirming that his “vision, values, and dedication to excellence” will guide the company, led by CEO Vivek Vikram Singh, as it selects a new chairman. Polo teammates paid tribute, sharing a photo of Sunjay moments before his collapse, captioned, “Our dear friend tragically passed away on field.” Bollywood figures, including Kangana Ranaut, called the incident “unbelievable” and “bizarre,” while Kareena, Saif, Malaika Arora, and Amrita Arora rallied around Karisma in Mumbai days earlier, showcasing the industry’s support.
The Weight of Sunjay’s Final Words
Days before his passing, Sunjay shared a philosophical post on X: “Your time on Earth is limited. Leave the ‘what ifs’ to the philosophers and instead dive headfirst into the ‘why nots’.” This message, hashtagged #MondayMotivation, now carries haunting resonance, encapsulating his bold approach to life. His sudden departure has sparked reflection on life’s fragility, with fans and associates noting the eerie timing of his posts amid the Ahmedabad tragedy and his own unexpected death.
A Dignified Farewell
The Kapur family’s unified response, exemplified by the joint funeral note, reflects a commitment to honoring Sunjay’s memory with dignity. Karisma’s decision to attend the funeral with Samaira and Kiaan, despite their past, ensures their children can bid farewell to their father, fostering closure. The prayer meet on June 22 will offer a space for friends, colleagues, and loved ones to celebrate Sunjay’s contributions as a businessman, sportsman, and father. As New Delhi prepares for these somber events, Sunjay Kapur’s legacy endures through his family, his work, and the lives he touched.
Rest in Peace, Sunjay Kapur (1971–2025).
Disclaimer: This blog is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. The views expressed are not necessarily those of any organization or individual.
Sources: News18, NDTV, Indian Express, Times of India, ABP Live, and posts on X by media outlets.
