Sunjay Kapur’s Death Triggers Succession Crisis at Sona Comstar

Businessman Sunjay Kapur died on June 12 during a polo match in London. He collapsed after feeling unwell and asking to leave the field. A source said he “swallowed a bee” during the game. The sting may have triggered a heart attack.

Shockwaves Hit Sona Comstar

Kapur led Sona Comstar, a top auto parts company. He took charge in 2015 after his father, Dr. Surinder Kapur, passed away. Under Sunjay, the company expanded into global markets.

After his death, Sona Comstar’s stock dropped by 7%. Bloomberg said the company’s value stood at ₹31,000 crore (around $4 billion). In a statement, the company said his “vision and values” had built a strong foundation. It added, “Our operations remain stable as we honour his legacy.”

No Successor Yet, Board Names Interim Head

The company hasn’t confirmed a long-term successor. But India.com reported that “his sisters may temporarily step into leadership roles.” The board soon appointed Jeffrey Mark Overly as interim chairman.

Family Rift Surfaces After Death

Sunjay’s mother, Rani Kapur, raised objections after his death. She accused the board of ignoring her during the mourning period. She wrote to SEBI, “I was emotionally shattered and coerced into signing documents I hadn’t seen.” Rani Kapur said the board's actions “betray the family legacy.”

She also opposed the appointment of Priya Sachdev Kapur, Sunjay’s wife, as a director. Rani said the move happened “without family consultation.” She warned that “unauthorised people” had claimed to represent the family.

In response, the company denied her claims. It said, “Rani Kapur has not held company shares since 2019.” The board added, “We did not collect or ask her to sign any papers after Sunjay’s death.” It confirmed that Priya’s appointment followed legal procedures and shareholder approval.

What Happens to Sunjay’s Wealth?

According to Forbes, Sunjay was worth $1.2 billion (₹10,300 crore) at the time of his death. His wealth peaked at $1.6 billion (₹13,000 crore) in 2022 and 2024.

He was the only beneficiary of the RK Family Trust. This trust owns the promoter stake in Sona Comstar through Aureus Investments. As per Indian law, Priya Sachdev Kapur will now manage the estate.

Still, Sunjay had made plans for his children from his first marriage. He gifted ₹14 crore in bonds to his children, Samaira (20) and Kiaan (14). Each child also gets ₹10 lakh per month. Reports also say Karisma Kapoor, his ex-wife, received ownership of a family home.

A Look at His Personal Life

Sunjay married Karisma Kapoor in 2003. They had two children. The couple divorced in 2016. Karisma got custody, and Sunjay received visitation rights.

Later, he married Priya Sachdev. She had a daughter from her previous marriage. Together, they had a son named Azarius, who is now 6 years old.

Polo Was His Passion

Sunjay loved polo. He ran a team called Aureus and played regularly. On the day he died, he was playing against Sujan, a team owned by hotelier Jaisal Singh. A source close to him said, “He felt uneasy, stopped playing, and left the ground.” Moments later, he collapsed and died.