Billionaire businessman Sunjay Kapur, a prominent figure in both India’s industrial elite and the British polo circuit, died suddenly on June 12 after collapsing mid-match at Windsor’s Guards Polo Club.
Kapur, chairman of global automotive giant Sona Comstar, was playing for the Sujan Indian Tigers in the semi-finals of the Cartier Trophy when tragedy struck.
The 53-year-old reportedly lost consciousness and collapsed on Smith’s Lawn after he was stung by a bee — possibly inside his mouth — triggering a fatal episode of anaphylactic shock.
“Gone in an Instant”: Polo Match Turns Fatal
“He was full of life, laughing, joking, then gone in an instant,” a source told The Mirror, reflecting the disbelief shared by many at the elite event.
A witness told The Telegraph that they recalled hearing Kapur say, “I’ve swallowed something,” moments before he collapsed.
Though some initial reports cited a heart attack as the cause, insiders clarified the cardiac arrest was likely triggered by an allergic reaction to the bee sting, per The Independent.
Medical experts have long warned that internal insect stings — especially in the mouth or throat — can rapidly block airways, cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure, and induce shock. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of anaphylaxis include a rapid, weak pulse, skin rash, nausea, and restricted breathing. Without immediate treatment, the condition can be fatal.
Beloved by Royals and Grooms Alike
A seasoned polo player with deep ties to British aristocracy, Kapur was known for his frequent matches alongside Prince William. His team, Aureus Polo, described him as the “life and soul” of the group.
A close friend told Telegraph Sport: “He will be greatly missed not only by his family and friends but the local community around his club as he employed so many people and made so many friends — he was fun, kind and generous. He didn’t distinguish between his grooms or high net worth friends — when he had a party, everyone was invited and everyone was equal.”
The Guards Polo Club shared its condolences via Instagram, writing: “Guards Polo Club’s Chairman, Directors and Members were shocked to learn that Sunjay Kapur, owner of the Aureus polo team, died yesterday after becoming unwell when playing in a match at Smith’s Lawn. The Club sends its deepest condolences to his wife, Priya Sachdev, his children, the wider Kapur family and his Aureus team-mates.”
From Automotive Powerhouse to Royal Turf
Sunjay Kapur was born into business royalty. He inherited Sona Comstar from his father, Dr. Surinder Kapur, in 2015. The company, founded in 1987, blossomed under Sunjay’s leadership into a global supplier for the mobility tech sector, with factories in India, China, Mexico, Serbia, and the U.S.
In a statement following his death, Sona Comstar said: “We are deeply saddened by the sudden demise of our Chairman, Mr. Sunjay Kapur. He was a visionary leader whose passion, insight and dedication shaped the identity and success of our company.”
They added, “Mr. Kapur played a pivotal role in shaping Sona Comstar into a global mobility technology company built on innovation, sustainability, and purpose. His passion, foresight, and relentless commitment to excellence inspired everyone who had the privilege of working with him.”
Bollywood, Allegations, and a High-Profile Love Life
Kapur’s private life was frequently in the spotlight. From 2003 to 2016, he was married to Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor. The couple had two children—Samaira, now 20, and Kiaan, 14. After their split, Kapoor publicly accused Kapur of prioritizing fame and social climbing over family duties.
In her plea, she stated: “(Sunjay) decided to carry on, leaving me behind to take care of our sick four-month-old son, just to play a Polo match with Prince William. I also realised that he had married me only because I was a famous and successful film star, which would facilitate him to be reported in the press. It came as a surprise that he always wanted to be known in public and be famous, but since he never did any deed worth mentioning, he was not able to garner any attention.”
In 2017, Kapur remarried model and fashion entrepreneur Priya Sachdev. They had a son, Azarias, who is now 7.
A Final Tribute Before Tragedy
Just hours before his sudden death, Kapur took to social media to share his condolences for the victims of the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad.
“Terrible news of the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad,” he wrote. “My thoughts and prayers are with all the families affected. May they find strength in this difficult hour.”
“A Shocking Reminder”
Though known for his business acumen and larger-than-life personality, Kapur was said to be in excellent health before his death. One family source remarked, “Sunjay was in excellent health. No one could believe what had happened. It’s a shocking reminder of how fragile life can be.”
As the news rippled across international polo grounds and corporate boardrooms alike, tributes poured in for the man remembered as both a fearless leader and a fiercely loyal friend.