Mathias Busekist
He died during a polo match in Windsor on Thursday.
Indian billionaire industrialist and noted polo enthusiast Sunjay Kapur died on Thursday, June 12, after collapsing during a polo match in Windsor. He was 53, according to PEOPLE
Kapur, chairman of the global automotive parts company Sona Comstar, reportedly suffered anaphylactic shock, possibly triggered by a bee sting to the mouth during the match.
Witnesses say he complained, “I’ve swallowed something,” moments before collapsing – and despite immediate medical attention, Kapur could not be revived.
Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. According to the Mayo Clinic, it can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure and narrowed airways, making breathing difficult. Common triggers include insect stings, certain foods, and medications.
Kapur’s death sent shockwaves through the international polo community and beyond. Known for his generosity and charisma, he was a regular on the polo circuit, frequently playing with members of the British royal family, including Prince William, with whom he shared a personal friendship.
“He didn’t distinguish between high-net-worth guests or his grooms,” a friend told The Telegraph. “Everyone was welcome at his table. He was fun, kind, and deeply respected.”
Kapur was the son of Dr. Surinder Kapur, who founded Sona Comstar in 1987. Under Sunjay Kapur’s leadership, the company grew into a global force in automotive technology and electric vehicle components. In a statement, Sona Comstar praised their late chairman as “a visionary leader whose passion, insight and dedication shaped the identity and success of our company.”
Beyond business, Kapur was a public figure in both India and the UK. He was married to Bollywood star Karisma Kapoor from 2003 to 2016. The couple shared two children: daughter Samaira, 20, and son Kiaan, 14. In 2017, he married model and entrepreneur Priya Sachdev, with whom he had a son, Azarias, now 7.
Just hours before his death, Kapur had posted a message of condolence on social media following the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, writing: “Terrible news… My thoughts and prayers are with all the families affected.”