Sunjay Kapur, Chairman of Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd (Sona Comstar) and a prominent figure in India’s automotive industry, passed away at the age of 53 due to a sudden cardiac arrest while playing polo in the English countryside. The incident occurred during a private event on Thursday, and despite prompt medical intervention, he could not be revived, according to sources close to the family.
Just hours before his untimely passing, Kapur had expressed his sorrow on social media over the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash.
A visionary in the field of automotive innovation, Kapur was instrumental in transforming Sona Comstar into one of India’s most future-ready auto component manufacturers. Under his leadership, the company strategically pivoted toward electric vehicle (EV) driveline technologies, establishing itself as a global Tier 1 supplier to leading automakers and EV startups across North America, Europe, and Asia. His legacy as a forward-thinking leader will be remembered across the industry.
“It is an extraordinarily painful duty for me to confirm that our Chairman—and my best friend in this world—Sunjay Kapur passed away yesterday in the UK. Sunjay lived a remarkable life and was cherished by all who truly knew him.
While a formal statement from the company will follow, I must say he was the closest thing to a brother I ever had. The void his passing has left in my life is irreparable. May God give his wife Priya and their four children the strength to bear this profound loss. Om Shanti,” shared Vivek Vikram Singh, MD & Group CEO of Sona Comstar, in an emotional post on LinkedIn.
Sunjay Kapur was a visionary leader who steered Sona Comstar through a landmark IPO in 2021 and led the company’s global expansion with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and electrification. By 2025, under his leadership, Sona Comstar emerged as one of the world’s top producers of EV traction motor components by volume.
In addition to his role at Sona Comstar, Kapur also served as President of the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA). During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in leading the Indian auto component industry through post-pandemic recovery and advancing its transformation into a sustainable, globally competitive sector.
As President of the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), Sunjay Kapur played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Indian auto component sector. He championed digital transformation, bolstered export competitiveness, and prepared suppliers for the evolving electric mobility landscape. Kapur was a key force in fostering policy dialogue between the industry and government, addressing crucial areas such as localisation, skill development, and incentives for clean mobility. Representing the voice of over 800 component manufacturers, he was instrumental in aligning the industry’s progress with India’s larger industrial and mobility ambitions.
At the time of his passing, Kapur was also serving as Chairman of the CII Northern Region. A passionate advocate for India’s manufacturing potential, he consistently emphasised the role of deep technology, innovation, and quality in building globally competitive industries. His thought leadership was widely recognised across national and international forums.
Beyond his professional achievements, Sunjay Kapur led a rich and fulfilling personal life. A skilled polo player and a respected figure in India’s equestrian community, he was admired for his discipline, elegance, and sportsmanship. He balanced the high demands of leadership with an enduring commitment to his passions and his family.
He is survived by his wife, Priya, and their four children.
With his passing, India has lost not just a business leader, but a visionary strategist who championed a global future for the country’s automotive and manufacturing sectors.
