Tragic End to a Prominent Businessman and Polo Enthusiast
In a shocking and deeply saddening incident, Sanjay Kapoor, the ex-husband of Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor, passed away suddenly at the age of 53 while playing polo with his friends in the United Kingdom. The unexpected nature of his death has sent shockwaves through both the business and entertainment circles in India and abroad.
According to initial reports from Indian media, Sanjay Kapoor collapsed during a casual polo match and was rushed to the nearest hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival. The primary cause of death is reported to be sudden cardiac arrest, although alternative theories have also surfaced.
Details of the Tragic Incident
Sudden Collapse During a Polo Match
Sanjay Kapoor, who had been residing in the UK for some time, was reportedly engaged in a friendly polo game—a sport he was known to enjoy regularly. Eyewitnesses mentioned that he suddenly collapsed on the field without any prior warning or visible signs of discomfort.
Medical help was summoned immediately, and he was taken to a nearby hospital. Despite the prompt medical response, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Conflicting Reports: Cardiac Arrest or Allergic Reaction?
While initial medical evaluations pointed toward sudden cardiac arrest as the cause of death, some alternative reports in the media suggested an unusual possibility: that Sanjay Kapoor may have accidentally swallowed a bee while playing. The claim suggests that the incident triggered a severe allergic reaction, leading to anaphylactic shock, which could also result in cardiac arrest.
However, medical professionals from the attending hospital have maintained that cardiac arrest remains the most probable cause, and no conclusive evidence has yet confirmed the bee allergy theory.
A Business Tycoon with Deep Roots in India’s Auto Industry
Legacy of the Sona Group
Sanjay Kapoor was more than just a name linked to Bollywood through his marriage to Karisma Kapoor. He was a well-respected entrepreneur and industrialist in his own right. The son of Dr. Surendra Kapoor, the founder of the Sona Group, Sanjay carried forward the family legacy with distinction.
He served as the Chairman of Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd (commonly known as Sona Comstar), a leading Indian auto component manufacturer. The company supplies critical systems and components for both electric and conventional vehicles across global markets.
Under Sanjay Kapoor’s leadership, the company experienced significant growth, aligning itself with the emerging electric vehicle (EV) revolution. His strategic vision positioned Sona Comstar as a crucial player in the future of automotive engineering.
Karisma Kapoor and Sanjay Kapoor: A High-Profile Relationship
Bollywood Meets Business
Sanjay Kapoor gained widespread media attention in 2003 when he married popular Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor, who is the daughter of Randhir Kapoor and Babita and the elder sister of Kareena Kapoor Khan.
Their wedding was a grand affair, attended by the who’s who of both Bollywood and Indian high society. Together, they had two children: Samaira Kapoor and Kiaan Raj Kapoor.
Marital Struggles and Divorce
Despite the lavish wedding and initial happiness, the couple’s relationship faced increasing strain over the years. After nearly 13 years of marriage, Karisma and Sanjay Kapoor divorced in 2016. The separation attracted significant media coverage, with both parties involved in legal disputes over child custody and financial matters.
Following the divorce, Karisma Kapoor retained custody of their children, while Sanjay reportedly continued to visit Mumbai regularly to meet his children and remain a part of their lives.
A Second Marriage and a New Family
Marriage to Priya Sachdev
After his divorce from Karisma, Sanjay Kapoor remarried. He tied the knot with Priya Sachdev, a model and businesswoman known for her work in fashion and entrepreneurship. Priya was previously married to hotelier Vikram Chatwal.
In 2018, the couple welcomed a son named Azarias Kapoor, marking a new chapter in Sanjay’s personal life. The family often shared photos and updates on social media, portraying a happy, well-adjusted family unit.
Kapoors React to Sanjay Kapoor’s Death
Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan Visit Karisma Kapoor
In the wake of this heartbreaking news, several members of the Kapoor family were seen rallying around Karisma Kapoor for support. Her sister, Kareena Kapoor Khan, along with her husband Saif Ali Khan, were photographed arriving at Karisma’s residence in Mumbai shortly after news of Sanjay Kapoor’s death broke.
Though Karisma has not made any official public statement yet, sources close to the family indicate that she is shocked and deeply saddened by the news. Despite the divorce, Karisma and Sanjay reportedly maintained a cordial relationship for the sake of their children.
The Shockwave in Business and Entertainment Circles
Tributes Pour In
Condolences have been pouring in from industrialists, Bollywood celebrities, and political figures. Many praised Sanjay Kapoor’s contributions to India’s industrial landscape, while others remembered him as a dedicated father and family man.
Industry colleagues noted his sharp acumen and contributions to advancing India’s footprint in the global auto sector. Meanwhile, Bollywood stars and friends of the Kapoor family have expressed their sorrow and offered their support during this difficult time.
Conclusion: A Life Cut Short, But Rich in Legacy
The sudden passing of Sanjay Kapoor at just 53 years of age has left a void in both the industrial and entertainment spheres of India. While his marriage to Karisma Kapoor brought him into the limelight, his business accomplishments and personal integrity earned him lasting respect.
His sudden demise is a stark reminder of the unpredictability of life, and has reignited discussions around cardiac health, allergies, and timely medical intervention—especially for individuals with high-stress lifestyles.
Sanjay Kapoor leaves behind a grieving family, two sets of children, and a business empire that he helped build with vision and determination. He will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, his contributions to India’s automotive sector, and the role he played in two generations of families.
