Prince William’s friend Sunjay Kapur di.es aged 53 after ‘swallowing a bee’ as tributes paid


Sunjay Kapur, a billionaire entrepreneur and close friend of Prince William, has passed away at the age of 53 following a reported heart attack.

Kapur, who served as chairman of the international auto parts company Sona Comstar, is said to have collapsed during a polo game on Thursday.

According to The Mirror, the fatal incident may have been triggered by a bee sting, as he reportedly “swallowed a bee,” which led to a heart attack. The Telegraph also reported that onlookers recalled him saying: “I’ve swallowed something” just before collapsing.

A Final Message Before His Death

Just hours before his passing, Kapur posted a message of condolence on social media regarding a devastating Air India plane crash that occurred shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad Airport. In what would become his final message on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:

“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.”

Remembered as a Father, Mentor, and Polo Enthusiast

Sunjay Kapur was known for his passion for polo, his high-profile personal life, and his ties to the British royal family. He and Prince William reportedly shared a love for the sport and had played together on multiple occasions.

Those close to Kapur have expressed deep sorrow and disbelief over his sudden death. One source told The Mirror: “He was full of life, laughing, joking, then gone in an instant.” Another individual close to the family added: “Sunjay was in excellent health. No one could believe what had happened. It’s a shocking reminder of how fragile life can be.”

Corporate Tribute to a Visionary Leader

Sona Comstar, the company Kapur led, issued a formal statement mourning his passing.
“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the untimely passing of Mr. Sunjay J Kapur, Chairman and Non-Executive Director of Sona Comstar, following a sudden heart attack in England, UK, on 12th June 2025, at the age of 53,” the company said.

They praised him as “a visionary leader” who transformed Sona Comstar into a globally respected mobility technology firm grounded in innovation and purpose. The statement continued:

“His passion, foresight, and relentless commitment to excellence inspired everyone who had the privilege of working with him. Beyond his professional achievements, Mr Kapur was a devoted father, a mentor to many, and a passionate advocate for India’s manufacturing and mobility sectors.”

The company added that memorial details will be shared at a later time.

Mr Kapur is survived by a daughter and a son. Royal Insider has reportedly reached out to Kensington Palace for an official statement regarding his death.