KAMPALA, Uganda — A somber mood enveloped Kampala on Tuesday as Ugandans mourned the death of Rajiv Ruparelia, the 35-year-old businessman who died in a motor vehicle accident on the Busaabala highway on Saturday, May 3.
Ruparelia, the only son of prominent businessman Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, was cremated at the Hindu Crematorium Grounds in Lugogo. The ceremony blended traditional Hindu rites with expressions of national grief.
Mourners began gathering at the Ruparelia family home in Kololo early Tuesday morning. By midday, a procession, led by Uganda Funeral Services, slowly made its way to Lugogo.
Crowds lined the streets, many holding white flower petals, and softly chanted messages of remembrance. Many mourners openly wept, reflecting the connection many Ugandans felt with the young entrepreneur.
White, reportedly Rajiv’s favorite color, was prominent, with many attendees dressed in white attire as a symbol of purity and peace.
The mourners included political leaders, business figures, artists, and youth groups, highlighting Ruparelia’s wide-ranging influence. Speaker of Parliament Anita Among led a delegation and emphasized Ruparelia’s contributions to the economy, youth empowerment, and community development.
A poignant moment occurred when Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, visibly emotional, carried his son’s casket, a final act of paternal love.
Reflecting Rajiv’s passions, a convoy of sports and racing cars, which he reportedly loved, escorted the hearse.
The ceremony also provided many Ugandans with a glimpse into Hindu cremation rituals, marked by chants, incense, and traditional rites.
At 35, Rajiv Ruparelia had become a significant business leader in Uganda, known for his innovative approach in steering the Ruparelia Group, with interests in education, hospitality, real estate, and social development.
He is survived by a young daughter and his family.
Ruparelia’s funeral was seen by many as a tribute to a life that impacted various segments of society and bridged different communities.
