Who Is Vikram Chatwal? All about Priya Sachdev Ex Husband

The name Vikram Chatwal is back in the headlines after the death of businessman Sunjay Kapur sparked a major family feud over his ₹30,000 crore fortune. Among those involved in the succession fight is Priya Sachdev, Sunjay’s third wife, who was earlier married to hotelier Vikram Chatwal.

As legal battles over inheritance begin, many are asking: Who is Vikram Chatwal? His past relationship with Priya and his own colourful life make him a figure of interest once again.

Who is Vikram Chatwal?

• Full Name: Vikram Chatwal

• Born: November 1, 1971, Ethiopia

• Nationality: American

• Profession: Hotelier, Actor, Businessman

• Education: Graduate from Wharton School of Business (1993)

• Family: Son of businessman Sant Singh Chatwal

He briefly worked at Morgan Stanley after graduation. Later, he shifted careers and explored acting, modeling, and finally hospitality.

He appeared in a few films including Zoolander and Honeymoon Travels Pvt Ltd. Vikram was also the first Sikh model on Vogue magazine.

Rise as a Hotelier

In 1999, Vikram entered the hotel business. He opened The Time Hotel in New York. Later, he launched Vikram Chatwal Hotels, which included several luxury hotels in New York, Miami, Bangkok, and India.

In 2015, he invested $20 million in renovating his Dream New York hotel. His hotels became known for their bold design and high-end services.

Marriage to Priya Sachdev

In 2006, Vikram married Priya Sachdev, a former investment banker and actress from Delhi. Their wedding was arranged by Vikram’s father, hoping to settle his party lifestyle.

The couple had a daughter, Safira, the same year. However, the marriage did not last. Vikram went to rehab twice due to alcohol issues. In 2011, Priya filed for divorce.

Priya later married Sunjay Kapur in 2017, and Safira was adopted by Sunjay. She now goes by Safira Kapur.

The Wild Years

Vikram was often seen in the company of celebrities. He dated models like Kate Moss and Gisele Bündchen. After his divorce, he was linked to Lindsay Lohan, Kim Kardashian, and later Angela Lindvall.

He partied with stars like Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, drove flashy cars like his Aston Martin, and became known for his wild, jet-setting life.

Legal Troubles

In 2013, Vikram was arrested in Florida for drug possession at an airport. Though charges were later dropped, more trouble followed.

In 2014, his father Sant Chatwal pleaded guilty to illegal campaign contributions in the US and paid a fine.

In 2016, Vikram was arrested again—for setting two dogs on fire. He was charged with animal cruelty and ordered to do community service.

Comeback in Business

Despite his personal struggles, Vikram made a successful return to hospitality. He focused on growing the Chatwal brand, reopening his properties and adding new ones.

He remains active in the hotel industry, now known more for his business success than scandals.

Connection to Sunjay Kapur’s Family Drama

Vikram’s name resurfaced after Sunjay Kapur’s sudden death in July 2025. Priya Sachdev, now Priya Sunjay Kapur, is fighting for her late husband’s assets.

Their daughter Safira, once known as Safira Chatwal, has also changed her last name. If legally adopted by Sunjay, she may not be eligible for any inheritance from Vikram.

This has added a new twist to one of India’s biggest family inheritance cases.