Businessman Sudhir’s Son, Rajiv Ruparelia, Dies in Tragic Car Crash

Wakiso — The son of a prominent businessman and Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, Rajiv Ruparelia, has died in a fatal motor accident in the early hours of Saturday morning, May 3, 2025.

According to a police statement released by SP Michael Kananura, the Community Liaison and Public Relations Officer at the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, the crash occurred at approximately 1:54 AM at the Busabala Flyover traffic lights in Makindye-Ssabagabo, Wakiso District.

The accident involved a Nissan GTR, registration number UAT 638L, which was heading from Kajjansi towards Munyonyo. Preliminary investigations reveal that the vehicle collided with temporary pavement barriers at the roundabout section of the flyover. Upon impact, the vehicle overturned and burst into flames, killing Rajiv Ruparelia, the sole occupant, instantly.

“The exact cause of the crash has not yet been determined. However, investigations are ongoing, and further updates will be shared in due course,” SP Kananura said. He extended condolences to the Ruparelia family on behalf of the Uganda Police Force.

“Single fatal crash: On 03/05/2025 at 1:54 am, a white Nissan GTR (UAT 638L) crashed, overturned & caught fire at Busabala flyover. We have been informed that the driver was Rajiv Ruparelia (35). He died at the scene. Investigations ongoing,” said ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Police Spokesperson, Kampala Metropolitan on his X platform.

The 35-year-old Rajiv was the only son of business mogul Sudhir Ruparelia and Jyotsna Ruparelia. He served as the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group—a vast conglomerate with interests in real estate, education, hospitality, and finance.

He was widely recognised for his youthful leadership, business acumen, and community engagement, and was seen as a key figure in shaping the next generation of Ugandan entrepreneurship.

Victoria University, where he also played a significant role, confirmed the tragic news and expressed condolences to the family.

“The family of Sudhir and Jyotsna Ruparelia would like to inform all family, friends, and in-laws of the sudden death of their son, Rajiv Ruparelia. Rajiv died in a car accident at 2:44 AM. He was 35 years old and is survived by a daughter of three years old. May his soul rest in peace.”

News of his death has sent shockwaves across Uganda’s business and social communities, with tributes pouring in from leaders, business partners, and members of the public. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon.