KAMPALA, Uganda — Property mogul Sudhir Ruparelia has publicly expressed his profound grief and pride following the death of his son, Rajiv Ruparelia, who died in a motor vehicle accident on May 3 in Wakiso District.
Rajiv Ruparelia, 35, was killed near the Busaabala Flyover traffic lights in Makindye Ssabagabo, according to Michael Kananura, spokesperson for the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety.
Speaking at Rajiv’s cremation ceremony in Lugogo, Kampala, Sudhir Ruparelia delivered a heartfelt tribute to his late son.
“As a father, I carry the immeasurable pain of his loss, and at the same time, immense pride in having raised a son like Rajiv,” Sudhir said. “I will always remember his vibrant energy—how he lit up every gathering he attended.”
Sudhir described Rajiv as a quick learner with a natural talent for business. “That’s how he connected so deeply with people,” Sudhir noted. “He didn’t just show up—he inspired. He made everyone feel seen, valued, and empowered, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds.”
He emphasized Rajiv’s commitment to education, saying his son supported students from primary school through university with mentorship and resources. “He saw potential where others saw limitation and became a pillar of strength and hope for everyone around him,” Sudhir said.
Sudhir also described Rajiv as genuine, loyal, and honest, building lasting relationships across various social and professional circles.
Reflecting on Rajiv’s well-known passion for motorsport, Sudhir recalled asking him to step away from it for safety reasons, a request Rajiv honored, though his interest remained.
In a personal anecdote, Sudhir shared a memory of buying Rajiv a small suitcase in London when he was five years old, which Rajiv would carry to meetings filled with chocolates. He also cherished memories of fishing with his son on Lake Victoria. “Those are among the countless, precious memories I will carry with me for the rest of my life,” Sudhir said.
