Kampala’s skyline has been redefined with the unveiling of RR Pearl Tower One, the first phase of the ambitious Pearl Business Park project, that brings world-class office spaces and premium amenities to the heart of the city. But beyond its architectural grandeur, the tower carries a deeply personal meaning—it is a tribute to the late Rajiv Ruparelia, tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia’s late son.
At the building’s official opening, Sudhir posted on his social media, “Havan prayers at the opening of the RR Pearl Tower No 1 in Kampala,” officially renaming the building that was initially called Pearl Tower One.
The initials are a deliberate homage to Rajiv, who was fondly known by those very initials during his rallying days under his RR Rally Team. For many Ugandans, “RR” symbolized Rajiv’s fearless spirit, his youthful energy, and his drive to compete at the highest level. Today, the same initials crown one of Kampala’s most iconic new landmarks, ensuring his name remains part of the city’s future.
Rajiv’s life was tragically cut short on May 3, 2025, when he died in a car accident on the way to be a groomsman at a friend’s wedding. At just 35, he had already left a remarkable mark on business, philanthropy, and sports, embodying the dynamism of the next generation of the Ruparelia empire. He was often described as the “modern face” of the family’s vast enterprises, steering new projects in real estate, hospitality, and community development with fresh vision.
At the launch of the tower, Sudhir Ruparelia described RR Pearl Tower One as “more than a building; a symbol of memory and hope.” The tribute was made even more poignant when Rajiv’s mother, Jyotsna Ruparelia, lit a candle at a portrait of a smiling Rajiv—an intimate gesture that underscored the building’s personal and emotional significance to the family.
While the tower cements Rajiv’s memory, it also carries forward his dreams. It is expected to provide thousands of jobs, attract both local and international businesses, and boost Kampala’s reputation as a regional commercial hub. For the city, it is a landmark of progress. For the family, it is a monument to a son whose vision will forever guide their legacy.
