Members of Uganda’s business community, family, friends and well-wishers gathered in silence as the remains of prominent businessman Rajiv Ruparelia were cremated at the Hindu Crematorium in Lugogo. The somber ceremony marked the final farewell to a man whose life was cut short far too soon.
Rajiv Ruparelia, the son of billionaire Sudhir Ruparelia, tragically passed away over the weekend following a horrific car crash in the early hours of Saturday morning. Details surrounding the accident remain unclear, but the sudden loss has sent shockwaves through Kampala’s elite circles, leaving family, friends, and colleagues grappling with grief.
Born into one of Uganda’s wealthiest families, Rajiv Ruparelia was no stranger to the most. As a director in the Ruparelia Group, he played a key role in the family’s vast business empire, which includes real estate, hospitality, and banking ventures. But those who knew him personally say he was more than just a businessman—he was a charismatic, down-to-earth soul who loved fast cars, good music, and living life to the fullest.
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Friends describe him as someone who could light up a room with his humor and generosity. Despite his affluent background, Rajiv had a reputation for being approachable, often mingling with people from all walks of life. His social media pages were filled with snapshots of luxury vacations, high-energy parties, and beautiful moments with loved ones — proof of a life lived boldly.
At the cremation, family members stood in quiet grief as prayers were recited and final rites performed. His father, Sudhir Ruparelia — a titan of Ugandan business —looked visibly shattered, a stark reminder that even the most powerful are not immune to heartbreak.
For now, however, the focus remains on honoring Rajiv’s memory. His death serves as a grim reminder of how fleeting life can be—no matter how much wealth, success, or youth one may have.
As the flames rose at the crematorium, so did the prayers of those who knew him — Rest in peace, Rajiv. Gone too soon, but never forgotten.
