Sunjay Kapur’s Rs 30,000 Crore Estate Sparks Succession Battle: What Will Stepdaughter Safira Inherit?

New Delhi:
The sudden demise of billionaire industrialist Sunjay Kapur on June 12 during a polo match in London has triggered a major succession battle involving his estimated ₹30,000 crore empire, including stakes in Sona Comstar, a globally renowned auto component manufacturer.

With multiple marriages, biological and adopted children, and family disputes spilling into the public domain, the issue of inheritance is emerging as one of the most intricate family business sagas in recent times.

What Could Stepdaughter Safira Kapur Inherit?

Sunjay Kapur’s wife, Priya Sachdev Kapur, has a daughter, Safira, from her previous marriage to businessman Vikram Chatwal. The key question now is whether Safira will inherit from Sunjay’s estate.

Legally, a stepchild is not entitled to inheritance unless formally adopted. According to reports, Sunjay had adopted Safira, making her a legal heir. However, under Indian succession law, if Safira was adopted by Sunjay, she may no longer be entitled to inherit from her biological father, Vikram Chatwal.

Adding to the speculation is the fact that Safira has reportedly dropped “Chatwal” from her name and now uses “Kapur”, while Priya has adopted the name Priya Sunjay Kapur—a move seen by some as a strategic step toward strengthening inheritance claims.

What About Karisma Kapoor’s Children – Samaira and Kiaan?

Sunjay’s former wife, Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor, shares two children with him: Samaira (20) and Kiaan (14). Despite the divorce being finalized in 2016, Sunjay reportedly made financial provisions for both children.

As per media reports:

• They were gifted bonds worth ₹14 crore.
• Each is entitled to a monthly income of ₹10 lakh.
• Karisma Kapoor was granted ownership of a house previously owned by Sunjay’s father, Dr. Surinder Kapur.

While Samaira and Kiaan may not inherit a direct stake in the business empire, these assets reflect Sunjay’s intent to secure their future.

Legal Wife Priya Sachdev Kapur and Biological Son Azarius

As the legal spouse at the time of Sunjay’s death, Priya Sachdev Kapur is likely to inherit a significant portion of the estate, especially if no will exists. Their 6-year-old son, Azarius, is a direct biological heir and will likely receive a share in both personal assets and trust holdings.

Sunjay was the sole beneficiary of the RK Family Trust, which controls the promoter stake in Sona Comstar through Aureus Investments Pvt Ltd. In the absence of a will, both Priya and Azarius are positioned to inherit major portions of the estate.

Family Dispute and Corporate Governance Concerns

Tensions have been rising within the Kapur family, especially following a letter from Sunjay’s mother, Rani Kapur, to SEBI and shareholders. In the letter, she alleged that she was emotionally coerced into signing documents and that the board’s decisions, particularly appointing Priya as a non-executive director, were taken without family consultation.

The company responded by stating that Rani Kapur had not held shares since 2019 and that all decisions followed due corporate process.

The stock market reflected investor unease, with Sona Comstar shares falling 7% following Sunjay’s death. However, the company issued a reassurance, stating:
“His vision and values have left a lasting legacy. Our operations and prospects remain unchanged as we honour his contributions.”

The Tragic Death of Sunjay Kapur

Sunjay Kapur tragically passed away after reportedly swallowing a bee during a polo match at the Guards Polo Club in London. The sting triggered an allergic reaction and cardiac arrest. He collapsed shortly after exiting the field and was declared dead on the spot.

Background

• First Marriage: Nandita Mahtani (divorced)
• Second Marriage: Karisma Kapoor (2003–2016)
• Third Marriage: Priya Sachdev Kapur (2017–2024)
• Children: Samaira, Kiaan (with Karisma), Azarius (with Priya), Safira (stepdaughter)

News Source : Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.