Businessman Sudhir Ruparelia has finally spoken, his heart heavy with grief, after the sudden and painful loss of his son, Rajiv Ruparelia. This is the first time he has spoken publicly since the tragic accident that claimed Rajiv’s life.
Rajiv, only 35 years old, passed away on May 3, 2025, in a car crash on the Munyonyo-Entebbe Expressway. He was more than just the son of a billionaire. He was a leader, a dreamer, and a man filled with purpose.
As Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, he had taken on a big role in continuing the family’s legacy. Their business reaches far and wide touching real estate, schools, hotels, and banks. But more than his business titles, Rajiv was a loving son, a friend, and a kind human being.
The accident happened at about 1:54 in the early morning. Rajiv was driving his Nissan GTR when it flipped at the Busabala Flyover traffic lights in Wakiso District. The car caught fire, and Rajiv died instantly. The news shook the nation. It broke many hearts.
Sudhir, who is now living every parent’s worst nightmare, shared a short but deeply touching message:
“Rajiv Ruparelia, you are always going to live in our hearts forever. Rest in peace.”
Those words carry the weight of a father’s broken heart.
Since Rajiv’s passing, people from all walks of life have come forward to pay their respects. Friends, leaders, and strangers alike have remembered him as someone special. Dr. Lawrence Muganga, Vice Chancellor of Victoria University, said Rajiv was “full of life, vision, and passion.” Owek Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro of Buganda, offered heartfelt sympathy to the Ruparelia family.
Robert Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine, called Rajiv “humble, kind, and generous.” Even the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, joined in expressing sorrow, acknowledging the great loss felt by the family and the business world.
The Ruparelia family has shared that Rajiv will be cremated on Tuesday, May 6, at 2:30 p.m. at the Hindu Crematorium in Lugogo, Kampala. A vigil is being held at their home in Kololo, where close friends and family are gathered to remember him. The family has asked the public and the media to respect their privacy during this painful time.
This is not just the story of a car accident. It is the story of a father’s unbearable pain, a family’s grief, and a young life lost too soon. Rajiv’s death is a reminder of how precious life is. He touched many hearts in his short time here, and his memory will live on in the lives he changed, the dreams he carried, and the love he gave.
Rest in peace, Rajiv. You are deeply missed.
