Sanjay Kapoor

Name: Sanjay Kapoor
First Appeared: 9th February 1993
Last Appeared: 24th September 1998
Played by: Deepak Verma

Sanjay Kapoor made his first appearance in Albert Square in February 1993, introduced as a friend of market inspector Richard Cole. He quickly secured a market pitch for his clothing stall, much to the dismay of its previous owner, Rachel Kominski. Sanjay, a Hindu, arrived just in time for his wife Gita’s due date in March 1993. Though reunited after a business failure, Sanjay’s gambling habits led them to lodge with Richard until he managed to win enough to put down a deposit on a flat. Unfortunately, his money-making schemes often ended disastrously, to the frustration of Gita.

Their troubles were compounded by the arrival of Gita’s domineering sister, Meena McKenzie, who continuously spied on and criticized Sanjay. Gita, struggling with post-natal depression, left Sharmilla with Sanjay for a break, only to return early and find him in bed with Meena. Enraged, Gita threw them both out, refusing Sanjay access to their stall and child. Eventually, Gita returned to Walford, sharing the stall work and care of Sharmilla with Sanjay, though their relationship remained strained.

The tension continued as Gita faced racist attacks, leading to Sanjay’s wrongful arrest. They reconciled on Christmas Day 1994, but the peace was short-lived. Sanjay’s old habits and Meena’s continued presence created further strain. In 1996, Sanjay was duped into a dodgy business venture by conman Guppy Sharma, leading to significant debts. Their marriage faced another blow with Sanjay’s diagnosis of a low sperm count and the subsequent death of his father, prompting another trip to India.

Gita’s extended absence in 1997 led to police suspicion of foul play, with Sanjay eventually cleared. When Gita finally returned, she shocked Sanjay with a newborn, revealing an affair and her subsequent abandonment by the father. Despite his fury, Sanjay chose to embrace the child, Arjun Kapoor, and give their marriage another chance. However, a scandalous article by reporter Polly Becker exposed their troubles, resulting in media harassment and bullying for Sharmilla. Realizing they could no longer stay in Walford, the Kapoors left for good in September 1998, seeking a fresh start away from the relentless scrutiny.