KAMPALA — Businessman and philanthropist Dr Sudhir Ruparelia has joined corporate partners supporting India Day 2026, an annual event that will combine cultural celebrations with a fundraising drive for Ugandans in need of specialised medical treatment.
The event, organised by the Indian Association Uganda, is scheduled for October 3, with Indian singer Neha Kakkar expected to headline the entertainment programme.
Through the Ruparelia Group, Dr Ruparelia is supporting the initiative, which organisers say will raise funds to facilitate specialised cardiac treatment for children and cataract surgery for patients across Uganda.
According to the organisers, the programme targets about 160 children below the age of five who require treatment for serious heart conditions. It also aims to facilitate approximately 1,000 cataract surgeries.
The humanitarian component was highlighted during a press conference held ahead of the event, with organisers saying they want India Day to go beyond cultural entertainment and contribute to addressing some of the healthcare needs of vulnerable Ugandans.
Paresh Mehta, chairman of the India Day 2026 organising committee, commended companies and organisations supporting the event.
Among the sponsors and partners recognised were the Ruparelia Group, Victoria University under Vice Chancellor Professor Lawrence Muganga, Bank of Baroda, Tyre Express, Tembo Steels, Technology Associates, Empile Casino and Britannia.
The participation of the Ruparelia Group places the business conglomerate among corporate partners backing an event that seeks to celebrate the contribution of the Indian community to Uganda while supporting a humanitarian cause.
The Indian community has had a long-standing presence in Uganda, with members contributing to sectors such as trade, manufacturing, education, hospitality, property and finance.
India Day has over the years provided a platform for celebrating cultural ties between the Indian and Ugandan communities while promoting social and business interaction.
The 2026 edition will feature music, food, cultural performances, business networking and community activities.
Neha Kakkar’s performance is expected to be one of the main attractions, as organisers seek to bring together members of the Indian and Ugandan communities for the celebration.
The event is scheduled to begin at about 4pm on October 3.
Ahead of the main celebration, organisers will hold a Community Heads Meeting bringing together leaders and representatives from different sections of the Indian community.
A Corporate Dinner for sponsors and partners will also be held on the eve of the event, providing an opportunity for networking and recognition of organisations supporting India Day 2026
For the Indian Association Uganda, the medical component remains a key part of this year’s celebration.
Organisers say funds raised through the initiative will support children with heart conditions who require specialised treatment in India, as well as patients seeking cataract surgery in Uganda.
The cardiac treatment programme will focus on children below the age of five, while the cataract initiative will target beneficiaries from different parts of the country.
The organisers have invited members of the Indian community, corporate organisations, partners and members of the public to attend the event and support the medical fundraising initiative.
India Day 2026 is expected to provide a platform for cultural exchange and community engagement while directing part of the event’s proceeds towards healthcare interventions.