A tragic bee attack at an elite polo event has left Sunjay Kapur, a close associate of Prince William, dead at the age of 53, raising questions about unexpected dangers in even the safest environments.
At a Glance
- Sunjay Kapur, 53, passed away on June 12 after a bee sting at a polo match.
- The sting likely caused an anaphylactic shock and heart attack, leading to Kapur’s collapse.
- The billionaire chaired Sona Comstar; the company mourns “a visionary leader.”
- Kapur was a prominent figure in India’s automotive industry and had royal connections.
Sudden Tragedy Strikes at Elite Gathering
Sunjay Kapur experienced a freak accident during the prestigious Cartier Queen’s Cup semi-final match in England, leaving attendees in shock. Known for his friendship with Prince William, Kapur was stung by a bee in the mouth, triggering what is believed to be anaphylactic shock, followed by a fatal heart attack. Witnesses say Kapur managed to utter, “I’ve swallowed something,” before collapsing on the polo field.
Reactions to this untimely demise underline the unexpected nature of such events. Anaphylactic shock, a severe allergic reaction, can strike without previous allergies, highlighting a hidden risk even in luxury locales. Friends and family are left to grapple with the swift loss of a beloved figure who was “full of life, laughing, joking, then gone in an instant,” as one insider described.
Legacy in Business and Personal Ties
Kapur’s legacy extends beyond the polo grounds. As chairman and non-executive director of Sona Comstar, he was instrumental in shaping the company’s identity. Sona Comstar confirmed Kapur’s passing with a heartfelt statement memorializing him as “a visionary leader” whose insights and dedication significantly steered the company’s success. Kapur’s net worth was estimated at $1.2 billion in April 2025, reflecting his substantial impact on the business world.
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden demise of our Chairman, Mr. Sunjay Kapur. He was a visionary leader whose passion, insight and dedication shaped the identity and success of our company,” said Sona Comstar.
His personal relationships were equally notable. Initially married to Bollywood star Karisma Kapoor, he had two children before marrying Priya Sachdev in 2017, with whom he had a son in 2018. His family, along with entities like Ashoka University and the Doon School in India, mourn the loss of a cherished member of the community.
Widespread Mourning
The unexpected nature of Kapur’s death has elicited widespread shock and mourning from various sectors. Institutions such as Guards Polo Club, closely tied to the British Royal family, and the Hurlingham Polo Association have expressed deep condolences. As one of the premier venues for polo, the Guards Polo Club often hosts prominent figures. Kapur’s ties with the club highlight the intertwined nature of sport, society, and personal connections on an international level.
“Deeply saddened at the passing of @sunjaykapur: he passed away earlier today in England,” wrote Suhel Seth.
As the world reflects on the sudden loss of a prominent business leader and friend to royalty, arrangements for Kapur’s funeral will be announced by Sona Comstar. Sona Comstar’s grief mirrors that of countless others, underscoring the global impact of this tragedy.
