The sudden and tragic death of 53-year-old industrialist Sunjay Kapur has left both the business and entertainment worlds in shock. The auto tycoon, who was playing polo in England, accidentally swallowed a bee, triggering a severe allergic reaction that led to a fatal heart attack. His funeral was held in New Delhi seven days later, followed by two prayer meetings attended by family and close friends, including his ex-wife Karisma Kapoor and their children Samaira and Kiaan along with Kareena Kapoor Khan and Saif Ali Khan. Who will lead Sona Comstar? Firm announces leadership changesFollowing his passing, the big question looming over the automotive giant he built, Sona Comstar, was about its leadership. The company has now addressed the speculation by appointing Jeffrey Mark Overly as its new chairman. Vivek Vikram Singh will continue in his role as CEO.Notably, the company has also inducted Sunjay’s third wife, Priya Sachdev Kapur, as an Additional Non-Executive Director (NED) on the board, a position that allows her to advise and guide the company at a strategic level without being involved in daily operations.Sona Comstar praises Priya’s diverse global experienceIn an official statement, the firm described Priya Sachdev Kapur as “a multifaceted entrepreneur and investor” with experience across industries and geographies. She is currently Director at Aureus Investment Private Limited and has a background in investment banking and luxury retail. A graduate of University College London, she holds a double major in Mathematics and Business Management.Priya began her career at Credit Suisse First Boston in London and later ventured into automotive retail, insurance, and fashion in India.Karisma Kapoor attends Sunjay Kapoor’s prayer meet with childrenSunjay’s passing not only shook the corporate world but also led to an emotional reunion of his blended family. Bollywood actress and his ex-wife, Karisma Kapoor, returned to Mumbai with their children, Samaira (20) and Kiaan (14), after attending his prayer meet in Delhi. The gathering, held at Taj Palace Hotel, saw Karisma standing beside Priya Sachdev in a rare and moving show of solidarity. Their children, along with Priya’s son Azarias (6) and daughter Safira, were also present.Kareena Kapoor Khan and Saif Ali Khan accompanied Karisma, offering support throughout the ceremony. Neha Dhupia, a close friend, was also in attendance.
Kapur family wealth and succession planningSunjay Kapur, who took over Sona Comstar after his father’s demise in 2015, played a pivotal role in expanding the company globally. Under his leadership, the firm grew into one of the world’s top auto component manufacturers. According to Bloomberg, Sona Comstar currently holds a market cap of Rs 31,000 crore (nearly $4 billion).However, Business Today reported a 7% dip in the company’s shares following the announcement of his death, indicating market uncertainty about the future.At the time of his death, Forbes estimated his personal net worth at $1.2 billion (Rs 10,300 crore). It peaked between 2022 and 2024, touching $1.6 billion (Rs 13,000 crore). According to Hindustan Times, his estate will be managed by Priya Sachdev. However, Sunjay had reportedly made provisions for all his children. Samaira and Kiaan have each been gifted bonds worth Rs 14 crore, and are expected to receive monthly incomes of Rs 10 lakh each—though these figures remain unofficial.Sunjay Kapur’s personal life was often under the spotlight. He married designer Nandita Mahtani in 1996 before divorcing in 2000. His second marriage to Karisma Kapoor in 2003 lasted until 2016. A year later, he tied the knot with model-actor Priya Sachdev, who was once seen in Uday Chopra’s film Neel ‘n’ Nikki.
