In the world of Bollywood, few stories have blended glamour, heartbreak, and responsibility quite like the saga of Karisma Kapoor and her ex-husband, Sunjay Kapur. Their relationship, which began with high hopes and ended in a prolonged and highly publicized divorce, offers not only a glimpse into the private challenges of celebrities but also highlights the lengths a parent can go to secure their children’s future—even amid personal strife.
A Marriage Marked by Ups and Downs
Karisma Kapoor, a leading star of the 1990s and early 2000s, married Delhi-based businessman Sunjay Kapur in 2003. The union, celebrated across the entertainment and business worlds, appeared to be a fairy tale at first. However, the marriage soon encountered severe turbulence, reportedly marked by irreconcilable differences and mounting tension. After nearly a decade, the couple separated in 2014, and the divorce was officially finalized in 2016 after lengthy legal proceedings.
The Divorce Settlement: Securing the Children’s Future
The protracted legal battle over custody and financial arrangements drew national attention. At the heart of the matter were the couple’s two children, Samaira and Kiaan Raj. After extensive negotiations, the court granted Karisma primary custody of the children, with Sunjay receiving visitation rights. However, it was Sunjay Kapur’s gesture in the settlement that became a talking point for many.
As part of the divorce agreement, Sunjay Kapur purchased bonds worth a staggering ₹14 crore (approximately $1.7 million) in the names of Samaira and Kiaan. These bonds were designed to provide financial security, yielding around ₹10 lakh in annual interest for the children. Such a sum assured that both Samaira and Kiaan would have their educational and personal needs well provided for, irrespective of the circumstances of their parents’ relationship.
In addition to the bonds, Karisma Kapoor was also given ownership of a property, further securing her and the children’s living arrangements. The settlement demonstrated a level of maturity and responsibility—an effort to ensure that the next generation would not bear the brunt of their parents’ fallout.
Navigating Co-Parenting in the Public Eye
Despite the acrimony that often accompanies high-profile separations, Karisma and Sunjay worked towards maintaining a respectful co-parenting relationship. Over the years, Sunjay continued to play a role in his children’s lives. Notably, on Samaira’s 18th birthday, Sunjay was present alongside his wife Priya Sachdev, and he penned a touching tribute: “A father holds his daughter’s hand for a short while, but he holds her heart forever.” This message reflected not only his affection for his daughter but also his ongoing commitment to fatherhood, even after moving on in his personal life.
Sunjay Kapur’s Sudden Demise
The narrative took a tragic turn on June 12, 2025. Sunjay Kapur, aged 53, died suddenly during a polo match in England. Reports indicate that he accidentally swallowed a bee during the match, suffered a severe allergic reaction, and then succumbed to a fatal heart attack. His unexpected death shocked friends, family, and associates on both sides of his life—those connected to Bollywood and those from India’s business and sports circles.
Remembering a Father’s Effort
As news of his passing spread, much was made of Sunjay Kapur’s efforts to ensure his children would be provided for, even after his separation from Karisma. The bonds worth ₹14 crore and the legal agreements put in place now stand as a testament to his sense of responsibility and care for his children. For Karisma Kapoor, while her own journey has had its share of challenges and scrutiny, her children’s future remains secure—an outcome achieved not just through legal proceedings, but also through her ex-husband’s lasting gestures.
The story of Karisma Kapoor and Sunjay Kapur goes beyond celebrity headlines. It is, at its core, about navigating heartbreak with dignity and prioritizing the well-being of children amid personal strife. Sunjay Kapur’s actions, especially his substantial financial provisions for Samaira and Kiaan, reflect a father’s love transcending marital discord. In the end, his legacy is not only that of a prominent businessman or a sports enthusiast, but also of a father who—despite his own turbulent journey—ensured his children’s path would be secure.