By Frank Kamuntu
In a vibrant celebration of culture, unity, and compassion, thousands gathered at Kololo Independence Grounds on Saturday, August 9, to commemorate India Day in Uganda—an annual event that this year took on a greater purpose: raising funds for heart surgeries for over 100 Ugandan children suffering from congenital heart defects.
Among the notable contributors to this noble cause was Sudhir Ruparelia, Uganda’s most prominent businessman and philanthropist, whose Ruparelia Group was recognized as one of the key sponsors of the event. His support added to the growing list of corporate and community partners stepping forward to help save lives and strengthen Indo-Ugandan relations.
Organized by the Indian Association Uganda and the Sindhi Community Uganda, the event was not only a cultural extravaganza but a call to action. Under the theme “A Celebration with a Heartbeat,” the celebration showcased how community efforts can be channeled toward transformational impact.
A Cultural Celebration With A Cause
The festivities featured colorful traditional dances, mouthwatering Indian cuisine, and electrifying performances by Indian pop stars Anjana Padmanabhan and Guru Randhawa. But beyond the entertainment, the focus remained on raising awareness and resources for Ugandan children in dire need of heart surgeries.
According to Santosh Gumte, Managing Director of Kansai Plascon Uganda, which donated UGX 300 million (approx. USD 80,000) to the initiative, around 8,300 children in Uganda are born each year with congenital heart defects.
“We cannot stand by and let that potential fade away,” Gumte said. “Our paint brings color to homes, but our partnerships and community work bring hope to hearts.”
Sudhir Ruparelia’s Enduring Impact
Sudhir Ruparelia, a long-time ally of the Indian community and a passionate advocate for education and healthcare in Uganda, was commended for the Ruparelia Group’s continued support of life-changing initiatives.
“India Day is more than just a cultural event—it is a celebration of shared values and mutual progress,” said Paresh R. Mehta, acting chairman of the Indian Association Uganda. “We’re grateful to partners like the Ruparelia Group, Airtel Uganda, Uganda Airlines, and the Rotary Clubs for turning this dream into reality.”
Fifty Ugandan children will be among the first to benefit, with all medical and travel expenses covered for their surgeries in India—a testament to the collective power of purpose-driven partnerships.
A Message Of Unity & Recognition
In a heartfelt message posted on social media, Minister of State for Investment and Privatization, Hon. Evelyn Anite, acknowledged the Indian community’s role in Uganda’s development:
“Happy India Day to all the Indians in the world but most importantly to the Indian community in Uganda. Thanks to President Kaguta Museveni, you are recognised as one of the tribes in Uganda. You are a tribe that has not only created jobs for our citizens but contributed 65% of our taxes.”
The Indian High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Upender Singh Rawat, echoed those sentiments, praising the deep-rooted ties between the two nations.
“This is more than a celebration of India’s independence—it’s a celebration of the enduring friendship, shared values, and collective future of India and Uganda.”
With dazzling fireworks closing the evening and awards presented to individuals and organisations for their humanitarian contributions, India Day 2025 will be remembered not just for its vibrant spirit, but for the hope it sparked in the hearts of many Ugandan families.
As Sudhir Ruparelia and other leaders continue to invest in Uganda’s future, the success of India Day stands as a shining example of what is possible when communities come together with purpose and passion.
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