By Frank Kamuntu
A quiet and emotional farewell has been held for Rajiv Ruparelia, as his cremated remains were respectfully laid to rest in the waters of Lake Victoria. The intimate ceremony was attended by close family members, including his father, renowned businessman Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, mother Jyotsna, and sisters Meera and Sheena.
Photos and footage shared online captured a solemn and reflective atmosphere as loved ones gathered to honor the memory of the 35-year-old entrepreneur whose life was tragically cut short in a road accident last weekend on the Kampala-Entebbe Expressway.
Rajiv was cremated on May 6 at the Hindu Crematorium in Lugogo, in accordance with Hindu rites. During today’s lakeside service, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia delivered a moving tribute, remembering his son’s generous heart, joyful spirit, and deep sense of compassion.
“He had such a kind soul,” Sudhir said, urging Rajiv’s friends and loved ones to keep his legacy alive by continuing the charitable work he cared deeply about.
Rajiv’s longtime friend, Jonathan Bahizi Buteera, also spoke at the ceremony, recalling Rajiv’s infectious energy and larger-than-life personality.
“I’ve never met anyone quite like you,” he said. “You brought flair, passion, and unforgettable drama into every moment. You made the everyday feel special.”
Rajiv leaves behind his wife, Naiya Ruparelia, and their young daughter, Inara, who are now held in the collective embrace of family, friends, and a mourning nation.
During the cremation last week, Godfrey Kirumira—a prominent businessman, long-time friend of the Ruparelia family, and member of the Kwagalana business group—paid a heartfelt tribute to Rajiv. He described his death as a devastating loss not only to the family but to Uganda’s broader business community.
“This is not just a personal tragedy for the Ruparelias,” Kirumira said. “It’s a painful blow to all of us who watched Rajiv grow into a brilliant leader. He leaves behind an irreplaceable void in our hearts and the economic fabric of this country.”
Kirumira remembered Rajiv as a symbol of “industrial courage and determination,” who carried the Ruparelia name with innovation, fearlessness, and ambition.
“Rajiv was more than a businessman. He was a man of the people—humble, kind, and deeply respectful of all those around him, regardless of age or background,” he said.
Highlighting Rajiv’s commitment to mentorship and inclusive leadership, Kirumira praised his ability to inspire a new generation of young Ugandans to dream big.
“He was a beacon of hope for youth and emerging leaders across the country. Though his dreams were tragically cut short, his vision lives on in the lives he touched and the institutions he helped build.”
As his ashes merge with the waters of Lake Victoria, Rajiv Ruparelia’s legacy of drive, compassion, and community spirit remains deeply etched in the hearts of those he leaves behind.
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