The cremation of Rajiv Ruparelia, the 35-year-old son of business magnate Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, took place today at the Hindu Crematorium in Lugogo, Kampala, amid scenes of profound grief and emotional tributes.
A somber gathering of family members, close friends, and distinguished dignitaries came together to bid farewell to one of Uganda’s most promising business leaders. Hindu priests conducted traditional rituals and prayers, guiding the final rites for the deceased. The ceremony reached its most poignant moment during the final prayers when the Ruparelia family, overcome with emotion, broke down in tears.
The ceremony drew attendees from across Uganda’s social spectrum, reflecting Rajiv’s wide-reaching impact on the nation’s business and sporting communities.
Rajiv lost his life on Saturday, May 3, in a tragic road accident at the Busabala Flyover in Wakiso District. His high-performance Nissan GTR collided with pavement barriers, overturned, and caught fire, resulting in his immediate death. The accident occurred on the day he was scheduled to serve as a groomsman at the wedding of Jonathan Bahizi Buteera, a close friend and business associate.
The Ruparelia family released a statement earlier this week describing Rajiv’s passing as a devastating loss and requesting privacy during their time of mourning. Since Saturday, a vigil has been held at the family residence in Kololo.
As Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, Rajiv oversaw the family’s extensive investments spanning real estate, hospitality, education, and banking sectors. He was also widely respected in motorsport circles for his efforts to revitalize rally racing in Uganda through the Rajiv Ruparelia Rally Team.
His untimely death has ignited national discussions about road safety and infrastructure management, particularly regarding the Najjanankumbi–Busabala road project overseen by China State Construction Engineering Corporation. Witnesses have pointed to inadequate lighting and warning signs at the accident location.
Notable figures at the cremation included former Premier Amama Mbabazi and Parliament Speaker Anita Among, underscoring Rajiv’s significance in Uganda’s business and social landscape.
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