The wedding of Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor to Delhi-based industrialist Sunjay Kapur on September 29, 2003, remains etched in the collective memory as one of the most extravagant Bollywood weddings of the early 2000s. Held at the Kapoor family's ancestral home, the Krishna Raj Bungalow (RK Cottage) in Mumbai, the wedding was a dazzling affair that blended Bollywood glamour with traditional customs. Recent resurgence of interest in the wedding follows the passing of Sunjay Kapur in June 2025, prompting a nostalgic look back at a chapter of his life that was once celebrated with great fanfare.
The wedding was a star-studded event, with over 800 guests including prominent figures such as Salman Khan, Govinda, and Jackie Shroff, alongside the entire Kapoor clan. Security was tight, with extensive arrangements made for valet services and media control, adding to the event's exclusivity and smooth execution. The RK Cottage was transformed into a dreamlike setting, drawing inspiration from the Sheesh Mahal. The venue shimmered with mogra garlands, elaborate chandeliers, and delicate pastel floral arrangements, reportedly costing around Rs 25-30 lakhs at the time. Decorators were flown in from Delhi and Mumbai to ensure every detail was perfect.
Karisma Kapoor, then at the peak of her career, broke away from traditional bridal norms by choosing a pastel pink and gold lehenga designed by her close friend, Manish Malhotra. The custom-made lehenga, valued at approximately Rs 5-7 lakhs in 2003, featured intricate zari embroidery, sequin detailing, and gota work. This choice set a new trend, inspiring brides to opt for unconventional colors. Karisma accessorized her bridal look with a diamond choker set layered with a longer necklace, delicate drop earrings, and a maang tikka with floral details. She also wore golden kaleeras, in line with her Punjabi heritage. Speculation remains about her footwear, with reports suggesting she wore golden heels encrusted with diamonds.
The culinary experience was no less impressive. The wedding menu boasted 126 dishes, encompassing a wide array of cuisines, including Mughlai, Thai, Italian, Oriental, Indian, and fusion. A team of 60 chefs from Sun 'n' Sand Hotel, Mumbai, were responsible for the catering. Arranging such a diverse and elaborate feast with premium ingredients and a large culinary team could have cost between Rs 40 to Rs 60 lakhs at the time. Guests were served a variety of refreshments, mocktails, and snacks before the main lunch. The buffet included salads, cold cuts, and a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, with Karisma's favorite Italian dishes prominently featured.
Although no official cost breakdown was ever released, industry insiders estimate the wedding's cost between Rs 5 to 8 crores, which would be approximately Rs 15-20 crores today when adjusted for inflation. This figure includes the venue, bridal outfits, jewelry, and the elaborate menu.
Karisma and Sunjay's marriage ended in 2016. The wedding, however, remains a significant event in Bollywood's history, remembered for its scale, luxury, and trend-setting choices.
