The Delhi High Court on Thursday ordered the preservation of businessman Sunjay Kapur's assets, estimated at around ₹30,000 crore, amid an ongoing inheritance dispute between his third wife, Priya Sachdeva Kapur, and his children Kiaan and Samaira from his marriage to actor Karisma Kapoor.
Kiaan and Samaira have alleged that Priya Kapur forged a will attributed to Sunjay Kapur and submitted an incomplete disclosure of his assets. They claim that key holdings, including polo horses, luxury wristwatches from brands such as Audemars Piguet and Rolex, foreign investments, and cryptocurrency assets, have not been included.
Taking note of these concerns, the court observed that the estate "needs to be preserved" and "should not be dissipated," and granted an interim injunction restraining Priya Kapur from selling or transferring any assets. It further stated that the onus is on her to dispel doubts regarding the authenticity of the will, noting that Karisma Kapoor's children have established a prima facie case.
The court also restrained the transfer of personal belongings, artwork, and provident fund payouts, while noting that Priya Kapur had earlier consented to certain restrictions. Emphasising equity, the judge observed that allowing liquidation of assets at this stage would be unjust if the will ultimately does not stand legal scrutiny. However, it permitted withdrawals strictly to meet financial obligations towards the children as per the divorce settlement between Sunjay and Karisma Kapoor. The matter will now proceed to trial to determine the legal validity of the will and inheritance claims.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has urged mediation in the broader family dispute over the estate, advising Sunjay Kapur's 80-year-old mother Rani Kapur that prolonged litigation would serve little purpose at her age. Hearing her plea, the bench observed, "This litigation has started at 80...this is not the age to fight," and encouraged an amicable resolution.
Rani Kapur has also approached the apex court challenging a Delhi High Court order that refused interim protection of the estate. She has alleged that she was divested of her assets, including property and other holdings, after being made to sign documents following a stroke in 2017, claiming misuse of her medical condition to transfer control of the family trust.
The Supreme Court noted that the dispute, involving multiple stakeholders and significant assets, could become a long-drawn legal battle. It stated that mediation would be in the interest of all parties while also confirming that the matter will be heard on merits next week.
The case forms part of a wider inheritance conflict following Sunjay Kapur's death in June last year after a cardiac arrest during a polo match in England. His ₹30,000 crore estate has since become the subject of multiple legal claims involving Priya Kapur, his children with Karisma Kapoor, and other family members, with allegations of exclusion, fraud, and disputed will authenticity.
Kareena Kapoor could not be happier with the new update from the Delhi High Court ruling, which allowed the interim injunction plea filed by the children of her sister, Karisma Kapoor. On Thursday, the Delhi High Court directed the maintenance of the status quo on the estates of late Sunjay Kapur.
Kareena took to her Instagram Stories and posted, "And there is light (red heart and rainbow emoticons). Justice and truth will always prevail. Chardikala (folded hands emoticon)
