Riches Without Peace: Karisma Kapoor’s Lavish Life With Sunjay Kapur and Why It Didn’t Bring Her Happiness
Karisma Kapoor, Bollywood’s beloved ‘90s diva, once lived what seemed like a dream life — a palatial mansion, a fleet of luxury cars, and a high-profile marriage to Delhi-based industrialist Sunjay Kapur. But behind the shimmering façade of affluence and privilege lay a troubled personal life that eventually led to one of the most talked-about celebrity divorces in India.
Years after walking out of the marriage, Karisma has slowly opened up about the emotional and psychological toll her relationship took on her, shedding light on how material luxury couldn’t shield her from the pain of a toxic marriage.
A Marriage Surrounded by Opulence
When Karisma Kapoor tied the knot with businessman Sunjay Kapur in 2003, it was considered one of the most high-profile alliances between Bollywood and big business. The wedding was a grand affair, with Bollywood stars and industrialists in attendance.
She moved into Sunjay’s ultra-luxurious Delhi home — a sprawling estate often described as “palatial” — with multiple servants, custom interiors, and a garage full of luxury cars like Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, and BMWs.
From the outside, Karisma seemed to be living the quintessential fairy tale — fame, wealth, beauty, and now, marital bliss.
But fairy tales, as she would later reveal, are sometimes nothing more than carefully curated illusions.
“I Had Everything… Except Peace”
Despite the material abundance, Karisma’s married life was deeply unhappy and emotionally draining. According to multiple reports and legal statements during her divorce proceedings, Karisma accused Sunjay Kapur of emotional neglect, repeated humiliation, and disrespect.
During a candid conversation years later, a source close to the actress shared:
“She used to say, ‘What’s the point of endless wealth when you don’t feel valued or loved?’ Karisma had everything — except happiness.”
According to court documents filed during their divorce, Karisma described instances where she was mocked for her acting career, subjected to mental pressure, and constantly belittled in front of others, especially by Sunjay’s family.
A Love That Turned Bitter
Karisma and Sunjay’s relationship soon became marred by incompatibility, frequent fights, and Sunjay’s rumored infidelities. He was often in the headlines for his alleged affairs, while Karisma struggled to hold on to her dignity and protect her children — Samaira and Kiaan.
What was especially painful for Karisma was the lack of emotional support. She wasn’t just fighting a battle with her husband; she was fighting loneliness, isolation, and societal judgment.
Motherhood Amidst the Chaos
Even as her marriage was falling apart, Karisma remained devoted to her children. Friends from her inner circle noted how she prioritized motherhood over everything else, even stepping away from her flourishing acting career to raise them in a stable environment.
Despite the separation, Karisma worked hard to give her kids a normal, grounded life — first in Delhi and then in Mumbai, where she eventually moved post-divorce.
The Legal Battle & Final Separation
The divorce battle between Karisma and Sunjay lasted years and turned messy. Allegations and counter-allegations flew in the public domain. From financial disputes to custody fights, it was a long, emotionally bruising journey.
In 2016, the couple finally divorced. Karisma was granted primary custody of their children, while Sunjay was allowed periodic visitation rights.
The court case shed further light on why Karisma chose to walk out, even with all the wealth around her: “Money can’t buy respect, safety, or love.”
Reclaiming Life, Peace, and Power
Post-divorce, Karisma Kapoor has reinvented herself as a single mom, wellness advocate, and content creator. She’s made selective acting appearances (Mentalhood, Brown) and continues to be a style icon, gracing magazine covers and fashion runways.
In her own words during a Women’s Day interview, she said:
“I realized that true strength is walking away from what no longer serves you — no matter how glittery it looks on the outside.”
She’s often praised by fans and peers for setting an example of choosing self-respect over societal expectations.
When Glamour Isn’t Enough
Karisma Kapoor’s story is a reminder that glamour doesn’t equal happiness, and even the grandest homes can feel empty without love, respect, and emotional security. Her courage to walk away, not just for herself but for her children, makes her a symbol of quiet resilience.
While the world admired the cars and the mansion, Karisma was searching for something far more valuable — peace of mind.
And now, years later, she has it — on her own terms.
