In the early hours of Saturday, May 3, a tragic accident on a dimly lit stretch near Busabala claimed the life of Rajiv Ruparelia, the 35-year-old son of business magnate Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia.
The devastating scene unfolded as Rajiv’s car veered off the road at high speed and slammed into a metal traffic pole before bursting into flames.
Pastor Gerald Lutaaya, who was leading overnight prayers nearby, heard the crash. “The sound was sudden and terrifying,” he recalled. “I rushed outside and saw the wreckage from my church.”
The vehicle was already ablaze by the time Lutaaya and a few bystanders reached the scene. Flames engulfed the car, which had been torn apart by the impact.
Then, from within the inferno, came a chilling cry for help. “It was Rajiv,” Lutaaya said. “He was still alive, shouting for someone to save him. One of his arms was reaching out through a broken window.”
Despite desperate efforts, the group had no tools or water to douse the fire. There was no emergency crew in sight. Helplessly, they watched as Rajiv’s voice weakened. Lutaaya said he began to pray in what sounded like Hindi before his cries faded completely.
Contrary to initial speculation, Rajiv was alone in the car. “We checked as best we could. If someone else had been inside, there would’ve been signs,” the pastor confirmed.
Known for his sharp business acumen and love for motorsports, Rajiv held the position of Managing Director at the Ruparelia Group, overseeing key ventures in finance, real estate, and education. He leaves behind a grieving wife, Naiya, and their young daughter.
The accident has triggered public outrage. Residents and eyewitnesses point to newly installed concrete pavements that lacked any visible warnings or reflectors. Lutaaya also noted that traffic lights at the junction were not functioning that night.
Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, speaking during his son’s burial, described Rajiv not just as a son, but as an integral part of his life and work. “Losing him has torn something out of me,” he said.
As the country mourns, painful questions remain: Could this tragedy have been prevented with better road safety measures? Why did help arrive too late? For Pastor Lutaaya, one thing is certain—he will never forget the voice that called out from the flames.
