By Joseph Kiggundu
At an emotional funeral ceremony in Kampala on Tuesday, Jyotsna Ruparelia made a public vow to fulfill one of her late son Rajiv Ruparelia’s biggest dreams, constructing a tower named after his daughter, Inara.
Addressing a crowd of mourners with raw emotion, Mrs. Ruparelia expressed her heartbreak and determination, promising that she and her husband, business magnate Sudhir Ruparelia, would carry forward Rajiv’s legacy of love and generosity.
“Rajiv, your greatest devotion was to Inara,” she said. “You gave her everything. You wanted the Inara Tower built in her name, and that is what we are going to do next. We will care for her, just as you would have.”
She spoke of Rajiv’s vibrant spirit, his generous heart, and his mischievous youth, recalling fond memories from his school days and family holidays. She shared that Rajiv often found creative ways to return home early from boarding school and insisted on flying first class when going back.
Mrs. Ruparelia also reflected on the powerful tribute paid to her son by the public and the government. Roads were closed for his final journey, and the procession featured cars, motorcycles, and friends from his rally-driving community. Among them was Rajiv’s sister, Sheena, riding a scooter, a moment that brought both concern and comfort to their mother.
She remembered shared experiences—playing golf, skiing, dining out, and clubbing together with both grief and pride. “You filled our lives with laughter and unforgettable moments,” she said. “We are going to miss you so much. Letting go will be the hardest part.”
Rajiv, the only son of the prominent Ruparelia family, passed away in a car accident on Saturday. His funeral drew a large gathering, as many came to pay their respects to a man remembered for his generosity, zest for life, and deep love for his family.