Sunjay Kapur: A Powerful Legacy of Innovation and Leadership
The Remarkable Journey of the Chairman of Sona Comstar
Introduction
Sunjay Kapur was a visionary industrialist, renowned as the Chairman of Sona Comstar, one of the world’s leading automotive components manufacturing companies. His life journey, from being a young heir to a global business leader, is a story of determination, innovation, and success. Known for his strategic foresight, he transformed Sona Comstar into a global player, especially in the electric vehicle (EV) sector.
This article takes a deep look at Sunjay Kapur’s life, covering his early years, education, family, career milestones, net worth, and legacy. It also highlights his untimely death and the legal disputes that followed, showing both the positive and challenging sides of his life.
Quick Bio of Sunjay Kapur
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sunjay Kapur |
| Date of Birth | 15 October 1971 |
| Place of Birth | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Date of Death | 12 June 2025 |
| Place of Death | Windsor, United Kingdom |
| Age at Death | 53 years |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Industrialist, Chairman of Sona Comstar |
| Net Worth (2025) | $1.2 billion (approx. ₹10,300 crore) |
| Parents | Surinder Kapur (Father), Rani Kapur (Mother) |
| Spouse | Priya Sachdev (Current), Karisma Kapoor (Ex), Nandita Mahtani (Ex) |
| Children | Samaira, Kiaan, Azarius |
Early Life and Education
A Business Legacy from Birth
Born on 15 October 1971 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, Sunjay Kapur came from a well-known business family. His father, Surinder Kapur, was a prominent industrialist and the founder of the Sona Group, which would later become a cornerstone of the global auto component industry. From a young age, Sunjay was exposed to the world of business, leadership, and innovation.
He attended prestigious schools such as The Doon School in Dehradun and Cathedral & John Connon School in Mumbai. These institutions shaped his personality and instilled in him the discipline and leadership qualities that later defined his career.
Global Education for Global Ambitions
To gain a broader perspective, Sunjay pursued higher education in the United Kingdom, graduating from the University of Buckingham with a degree in Corporate Strategy and Human Resource Management. His passion for learning didn’t stop there. He went on to complete advanced business management programs at MIT and Harvard Business School, preparing himself to lead a multinational company.
Family Life
Personal Relationships and Children
Sunjay Kapur’s personal life was as eventful as his professional journey. He was married three times:
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Nandita Mahtani, a fashion designer, whom he married in 1996 and divorced in 2000.
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Karisma Kapoor, a renowned Bollywood actress, whom he married in 2003. The couple had two children, Samaira and Kiaan, before divorcing in 2016.
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Priya Sachdev, a businesswoman, whom he married in 2017. Together, they had a son named Azarius.
Despite challenges in his personal life, Sunjay maintained a strong bond with his children and focused on securing their futures.
Career Beginnings
Taking Charge After a Great Loss
Sunjay’s professional journey began under the guidance of his father, Surinder Kapur. However, it was in 2015, after his father’s passing, that Sunjay stepped up to lead the family business. He became the Chairman of Sona Comstar, taking full responsibility for the company’s growth and direction.
He faced immense pressure, but his global education and visionary approach helped him modernize the company and make it competitive on a global scale. His leadership marked the beginning of a new era for Sona Comstar.
Chairman of Sona Comstar: Building a Global Automotive Giant
Driving Innovation and Expansion
Under Sunjay’s leadership, Sona Comstar became a global leader in automotive components. The company established manufacturing facilities in India, China, Mexico, Serbia, and the United States.
Sunjay focused heavily on innovation and sustainable solutions. By 2025, electric vehicle components accounted for 36% of the company’s total revenue, proving his forward-thinking strategy was successful. This transformation placed Sona Comstar among the world’s top companies in the EV supply chain.
Industry Leadership Roles
Beyond his company, Sunjay Kapur played a vital role in shaping India’s automotive sector:
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President of the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA).
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Co-Chair of the Manufacturing Council of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
These positions allowed him to influence policies and strengthen India’s position in the global manufacturing landscape.
Net Worth and Financial Success
Sunjay Kapur’s strategic vision and leadership led to exponential growth in both his company and personal wealth.
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Net Worth at Death (2025): $1.2 billion (approx. ₹10,300 crore).
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His wealth primarily came from his ownership stake in Sona Comstar and its subsidiaries.
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The company’s increasing role in EV manufacturing significantly boosted its market value, making Sunjay one of India’s most successful industrialists.
Tragic Death
On 12 June 2025, tragedy struck when Sunjay Kapur suddenly collapsed during a polo match in Windsor, United Kingdom. Reports confirmed that he suffered from anaphylactic shock after accidentally swallowing a bee, which led to a cardiac arrest.
His untimely passing shocked the business world and left a leadership void at Sona Comstar. His sudden death also triggered an inheritance dispute among family members.
Legacy and Impact
Sunjay Kapur’s legacy goes beyond wealth and business success. He modernized Sona Comstar, making it a respected name globally, especially in electric vehicle technology. His leadership helped position India as a serious player in the global automotive components industry.
While his passing has led to legal battles over his estate, his professional contributions remain a lasting inspiration. He is remembered as a leader who combined innovation, business acumen, and a passion for excellence.
Conclusion
The life of Sunjay Kapur, Chairman of Sona Comstar, is a testament to vision and perseverance. From inheriting a family business to transforming it into a global powerhouse, his journey was filled with achievements and challenges. His tragic death in 2025 marked the end of an era, but his contributions to India’s auto industry will continue to shape the future for years to come.
Despite personal struggles and legal disputes surrounding his estate, Sunjay Kapur’s story remains one of inspiration. He proved that with the right mix of education, strategy, and courage, it is possible to leave a lasting impact on both business and society.
FAQ About Sunjay Kapur
Who was Sunjay Kapur?
Sunjay Kapur was an Indian industrialist and the Chairman of Sona Comstar, a leading automotive components manufacturer with a global presence.
What was Sunjay Kapur’s net worth?
At the time of his death in 2025, his net worth was estimated at $1.2 billion (approx. ₹10,300 crore).
When and how did Sunjay Kapur die?
He died on 12 June 2025 in Windsor, UK, due to anaphylactic shock caused by accidentally swallowing a bee during a polo match.
Who are Sunjay Kapur’s children?
He had three children: Samaira and Kiaan with Karisma Kapoor, and Azarius with Priya Sachdev.
What was Sunjay Kapur’s role at Sona Comstar?
He served as the Chairman of Sona Comstar, leading the company’s expansion into global markets and the electric vehicle industry.
What is Sona Comstar known for today?
Sona Comstar is a global leader in automotive components, particularly in electric vehicle solutions, thanks to Sunjay Kapur’s innovative strategies.
