Industrialist Sunjay Kapur dies of heart attack—but did a bee trigger it?

Industrialist, polo enthusiast, and one-time Bollywood insider, Sunjay Kapur’s life came to a tragic halt on June 12 while he was doing what he loved most: playing polo in the UK.

The 53-year-old Chairman of Sona Comstar, known as much for his business acumen as his high-profile marriage to actress Karisma Kapoor, suffered a fatal cardiac arrest mid-match.

What makes his death even more surreal are unverified but widely circulated reports suggesting a freak accident involving a bee. According to live updates from Indian news portals, Kapur allegedly swallowed a bee during play—an incident that may have triggered the fatal heart attack. While this detail remains unconfirmed by medical authorities, it has added a bizarre layer to an already heartbreaking loss.

Kapur’s sudden demise sent shockwaves through social and business circles alike.

“Deeply saddened at the passing of @sunjaykapur … a terrible loss and deepest condolences to his family and to his colleagues @sonacomstar. Om Shanti,” tweeted noted brand consultant Suhel Seth.

Naor Gilon, Israel’s former ambassador to India, offered a personal tribute, writing:

“I was shocked and saddened to learn of the passing away of my dear friend, Sunjay Kapur. Sunjay was a dedicated father and a successful entrepreneur. He died while following another passion of his, playing polo. Om shanti.”

Just hours before his passing, Kapur had posted a somber message on X (formerly Twitter), mourning the victims of the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad:

“Terrible news of the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts and prayers are with all the families affected. May they find strength in this difficult hour.”

Another recent post showed a more reflective side:

“Your time on earth is limited. Leave the ‘what ifs’ to the philosophers and instead dive headfirst into the ‘why nots.’”

Kapur, who had enrolled into the executive programs at MIT and Harvard, was often seen as the urbane bridge between boardrooms and brunch tables. He was also a regular on the social circuit, known for his love of horsepower—both in the boardroom and on the polo field.

He was the third-generation heir to the Sona Group, transforming it into a global auto components powerhouse. Under his stewardship, Sona Comstar saw a successful public listing and evolved into one of India’s most respected automotive tech companies.

His passing is a stark reminder of how fragile even the most charmed lives can be. Whether or not the reports of a bee-triggered heart attack prove true, one fact remains: Sunjay Kapur left us far too soon, doing something he truly loved.