NEW DELHI: Sunjay Kapur, distinguished Independent Director at Jindal Steel & Power, the Naveen Jindal-led infrastructure and steel powerhouse, and Chairman of Sona Comstar Ltd, passed away at the age of 53 due to a sudden heart attack while playing polo in England. His untimely demise marks a significant loss to India’s corporate sector, where he was widely respected for his visionary leadership, strategic governance, and commitment to industrial excellence.
Sunjay Kapur is survived by his wife Priya Sachdev, and three children — two from his previous marriage with actor Karisma Kapoor.
As an Independent Director on the board of Jindal Steel & Power, Kapur played an important advisory role in one of India’s most critical sectors—steel and infrastructure—contributing to strategic decision-making in a company known for powering the nation’s growth.
A stalwart in the automotive components industry, Kapur led Sona Comstar to global prominence, steering its expansion across ten manufacturing facilities worldwide. His leadership helped position the company as a global leader in precision-forged gears and EV-ready technologies. He was a firm believer in India’s potential to lead in electric mobility and sustainable industrial practices.
A visionary in the automotive component manufacturing space, Kapur transformed Sona Comstar into a global leader in precision-forged gears and electric mobility solutions. Under his stewardship, the company expanded its global footprint with 10 manufacturing units across India, China, the US, and Mexico. His independent directorship not only brought credibility to boards he served on but also symbolized a deep-rooted commitment to corporate governance, innovation, and sustainable manufacturing.
An Educated Leader with Global Perspective
Educated at The Doon School, Williston Northampton School (USA), and the University of Buckingham (UK), Kapur constantly invested in lifelong learning. He pursued executive courses at prestigious global institutions including Harvard, MIT, ISB, and Wharton, blending academic excellence with practical industry leadership.
Voice of the Industry and Champion of Sustainability
As an Independent Director, Kapur’s presence was transformative. He was a key contributor in various strategic boards and councils, including serving as Vice President of ACMA and Chairman of its Electric Mobility Committee, driving India’s vision for sustainable and green transportation.
He was also elected Chairman of the CII Northern Region in 2024, where he aimed to boost industrial policy across seven states and three Union Territories. His last known public statement reflected his deep commitment to inclusive industrial growth:
“A key imperative is to fortify the connection between MSMEs, startups, and academia, creating a synergy that amplifies the region’s inherent strengths and unlocks new opportunities for economic growth.”
Independent Director, Entrepreneurial Icon
As an Independent Director, Kapur exemplified integrity, impartial oversight, and a drive for ethical innovation. He brought an entrepreneurial spirit into boardrooms, having served as Global Chairman of Entrepreneurs’ Organisation (EO) in 2007–08 — the only Indian to hold this global leadership position.
He also collaborated with CNBC to launch Masterpreneur India, a reality show that identified and supported emerging Indian enterprises. His deep belief in entrepreneurship as a vehicle for societal transformation was evident in all his ventures.
A Passion Beyond Boardrooms
An avid polo player since 2004, Kapur championed the revival of the sport in corporate India. His passion extended beyond play — he envisioned polo as a platform for leadership, discipline, and legacy.
Tributes Pour In
Prominent business leaders and public figures expressed grief over his untimely demise. Communications expert Suhel Seth posted,
“Deeply saddened at the passing of @sunjaykapur: a terrible loss and deepest condolences to his family and to his colleagues @sonacomstar …Om Shanti.”
(India CSR)
