Sunjay Kapur’s stepdaughter Safira changes her surname amid Rs 30,000 crore inheritance dispute

The unexpected passing of industrialist Sunjay Kapur during a polo match in London on June 12 has sent shockwaves through the business world, sparking a complex inheritance dispute. This legal battle could become one of India's most intricate and emotionally charged family conflicts, potentially impacting the Kapur family's legacy and business interests.

With a ?30,000 crore fortune and ties to Sona Comstar, the inheritance battle over Sunjay Kapur's estate intensifies. The family's complex dynamics, including multiple marriages, adopted children, and strained relationships, raise the crucial question: how will the assets be divided among the heirs?

Central to the unfolding legal and emotional drama is the position of Safira, daughter of Sunjay's third wife, Priya Sachdev Kapur, from her prior marriage to Vikram Chatwal. Her stake in the inheritance is a key point of contention.

The legal landscape shifts based on Indian inheritance laws, where a stepchild's claim is contingent upon formal adoption. If Sunjay legally adopted Safira, she would become a rightful heir, sharing in the inheritance alongside his biological children. This documented adoption is crucial.

The situation is further complicated by Priya and Safira's surname changes. Priya now goes by Priya Sunjay Kapur, and Safira has dropped "Chatwal" for "Kapur." This rebranding is seen as more than symbolic, potentially a strategic move to bolster their claim in the inheritance proceedings.

Media reports indicate Sunjay's long-term financial planning, gifting Karisma's children, Samaira and Kiaan, bonds worth Rs 14 crore, with a Rs 10 lakh monthly income for each. Karisma Kapoor also received ownership of a family home previously held by Sunjay’s father, Dr. Surinder Kapur. These provisions highlight the complexities of the estate distribution.

Regarding Sona Comstar and the promoter stake held via Aureus Investments Pvt Ltd, Samaira and Kiaan appear to have no managerial or financial involvement. Their inheritance, while significant, appears to be primarily personal rather than tied to corporate responsibilities, indicating a clear distinction in the estate's structure.

Sunjay Kapur, who died in the UK at 53 from a heart attack during a polo match, was a key figure in business and sports. As chairman of Sona Comstar, he was a major player in the automotive industry. He was also actively involved in motorsports and polo.

Sunjay Kapur, who married Karisma Kapoor in 2003, had two children, Samaira and Kiaan, with her. They separated in 2014 and divorced in 2016. In 2017, he married model Priya Sachdev and had a son, Azarias, while also co-parenting Priya’s daughter from a previous marriage.