Historic: Sudhir Ruparelia, Bageshwar Dham Shastri Draw Thousands to Kampala Spiritual Fiesta

By Frank Kamuntu

In a remarkable blend of spirituality and luxury, Ugandan tycoon Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia hosted Indian spiritual leader Shri Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, also known as Bageshwar Dham Sarkar, at Speke Resort Munyonyo.

The three-day spiritual discourse series, “Shri Hanumant Charitra Katha,” held from August 15 to 17, 2025, captivated thousands in Kampala with stories of devotion drawn from the Ramayana.

Shastri, the Peethadhishwar of Bageshwar Dham in Madhya Pradesh, India, received a warm reception from Ruparelia. The event coincided with India’s Independence Day on August 15, with participants waving flags and chanting “Ramnam” as the resonant “Sanatan Shankhnad” echoed across the resort’s scenic Lake Victoria grounds.

The discourse focused on Lord Hanuman’s virtues of strength, service, and devotion, attracting Uganda’s Indian diaspora and local communities alike. Shastri’s teachings of Sanatan Dharma emphasized faith, moral values, and cultural heritage, bridging spiritual connections between India and Uganda.

Speke Resort Munyonyo, owned by Ruparelia, offered a fitting venue with its luxury Presidential Suites, five gourmet restaurants, and state-of-the-art conference facilities. The event reinforced the resort’s status as a hub for international cultural and spiritual gatherings.

Economically, the visit boosted tourism and local business patronage, from hospitality to transport. Culturally, it strengthened Uganda-India relations and enriched the country’s social fabric through interfaith engagement. For the Indian Ugandan community, it was a moment of spiritual rejuvenation and cultural affirmation.

Through hosting Shastri, Ruparelia showcased Uganda’s potential as a global center for cultural and spiritual exchange, leaving a legacy of unity, faith, and economic opportunity that highlights the country’s growing prominence in East Africa.