By Frank Kamuntu
One of Northern Uganda’s most iconic hospitality establishments, Acholi Inn Hotel, has lauded Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, Uganda’s leading businessman and philanthropist, for gracing its premises during the Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally 2025 held in Gulu over the weekend.
In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), the hotel management expressed heartfelt appreciation for the billionaire’s visit, describing it as “an honour beyond words.”
“We were deeply honored to host Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, one of Uganda’s most distinguished entrepreneurs, here at Acholi Inn Hotel during the Rajiv Memorial Rally weekend. Your visit added great prestige to our home of Northern hospitality. We celebrate your continued support for sports, tourism, and Uganda’s growth,” the post read.
The statement, which quickly gained traction online, reflected the warm welcome extended to the Ruparelia family in Gulu, where thousands gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of the late Rajiv Ruparelia — a visionary businessman, rally driver, and philanthropist who died in a car crash on May 3, 2025.
The rally, which served as the sixth round of the Uganda National Rally Championship (NRC), covered 260 kilometers across Gulu, with 132.6 kilometers of competitive stages. It brought together top drivers including Ronald Sebuguzi, Ponsiano Lwakataka, Nasser Mutebi, Duncan Mubiru, and others in a fierce contest that blended motorsport passion with heartfelt remembrance.
Dr. Sudhir, the event’s chief guest, commended organizers and participants for keeping Rajiv’s memory alive through a cause that continues to inspire youth and promote sports tourism. “Rajiv’s legacy will live on through this memorial rally, which aims to promote motorsport and give back to the community,” he said.
Following the rally’s conclusion, Gulu City Council passed a resolution to name a major road “Rajiv Ruparelia Road” in honor of the late rally ace’s impact on both business and sport. Mayor Alfred Okwonga said the gesture symbolizes how Rajiv’s energy continues to uplift northern Uganda.
The Acholi Inn’s tribute underscores how the Ruparelia family’s contribution to Uganda’s growth — from education and real estate to philanthropy and sports — resonates across all regions. The hotel, a proud symbol of northern hospitality, said hosting Dr. Sudhir during such a historic weekend reaffirmed Gulu’s growing role as a hub for tourism and national events.
As the engines quieted after two days of roaring excitement, what remained in Gulu was not just the memory of a rally — but a celebration of legacy, unity, and the enduring impact of a family that continues to drive Uganda forward.
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