Uganda’s business mogul Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia on Sunday led members of the Indian community in celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights, at State House Entebbe, in an event hosted by President Yoweri Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni.
The colourful celebration brought together hundreds of Indians living in Uganda, diplomats, and top business leaders to mark one of the most important days in Indian culture.
Sudhir at the Heart of Uganda–India Friendship
Dr. Sudhir, who is widely regarded as the face of Uganda’s Indian business community, played a key role at the event that highlighted decades of friendship, cooperation, and shared progress between Uganda and India. His leadership presence symbolized the confidence Indian entrepreneurs continue to have in Uganda’s economy under stable political and investment conditions.
As chairman of the Ruparelia Group, Sudhir has become one of the strongest links between the two countries through his vast investments in real estate, finance, education, hospitality, and agriculture. His influence continues to inspire many Indians and Ugandans alike to pursue entrepreneurship as a path to national development.
In his remarks, President Museveni commended the Indian community for their lasting contribution to Uganda’s growth and stability. He noted that their factories, service industries, and commercial ventures have been instrumental in job creation and skills development.
“I am glad that when we called them back after Amin’s mistakes, they returned and trusted Uganda again. I thank them for that confidence,” the President said.
Museveni also emphasized that Uganda’s economy continues to thrive because of their resilience, discipline, and strong business ethics, which have become a model for the country’s private sector.
The event featured traditional Diwali performances, lighting of candles, and a shared dinner symbolizing harmony and renewal. Dr. Sudhir’s participation once again positioned him as a unifying figure between Uganda’s business class and the Indian community.
As the night ended, the message of the evening was clear — Diwali 2025 was not only a festival of light but a celebration of unity, growth, and gratitude, led by one of Uganda’s most influential citizens, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia.
