Rajiv Ruparelia, son of city tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia, will be cremated on Tuesday, the Daily Star has learned.
Rajiv, aged 35, tragically died earlier today in a motor accident near the Busaabala Flyover traffic lights in Makindye Ssabagabo, Wakiso District. His death was confirmed by Kananura Michael, the spokesperson for the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety.
“With deep sorrow, we announce that the final rites for Rajiv Ruparelia will take place on Tuesday, 6th May 2025, at 2:30 PM at the Hindu cremation grounds in Lugogo, Kampala,” a family member shared in a WhatsApp group.
At the time of his death, Rajiv was scheduled to serve as a groomsman at the wedding of Jonathan Bahizi Buteera, son of retired Justice Richard Butera. The wedding, held earlier today at All Saints Church, Nakasero, united Jonathan and Liz Mutoni in a ceremony officiated by Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu. Rajiv was one of seven groomsmen for the couple.
In a brief statement, the family—Sudhir and Jyotsna Ruparelia—confirmed that Rajiv passed away at 2:44 AM and is survived by a three-year-old daughter.
According to the Traffic Police Directorate, the accident involved a Nissan GTR with registration number UAT 638L, which was traveling from Kajjansi toward Munyonyo.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver lost control of the vehicle after colliding with temporary pavements at the roundabout section of the flyover,” said Kananura. “The vehicle overturned and caught fire, leading to the instant death of the driver, identified as Mr. Rajiv Ruparelia. While the exact cause of the crash is yet to be determined, investigations are ongoing.”
Hindu Cremation Process
Cremation, or Antyesti, is a traditional Hindu funeral rite believed to release the soul from the body and assist its journey to the afterlife. The practice is customary for most Hindus, excluding young children and ascetics such as monks and saints.
The ceremony typically includes offerings of rice balls (pindas), flowers, and an oil lamp symbolizing the soul. The body will be prepared and transported to the crematorium at Lugogo, accompanied by family members reciting prayers and chants.
At the cremation site, the body will be placed on a funeral pyre or within a crematorium, and the fire is lit. After cremation, the ashes are collected and traditionally scattered in a sacred river.
The mourning period usually lasts 13 days. A garlanded photo of the deceased is placed in the family home, where visitors participate in rituals to support the soul’s reincarnation. During this time, the family will remain at home in prayer, refraining from temple visits.
A memorial service will typically be held on the first anniversary to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased.
