By Musisi Lwanga
The Indian community in Uganda came together for one of its biggest annual cultural celebrations as Speke Resort Munyonyo, under the guidance of Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, and the Indian Association Uganda leadership hosted the Diwali Food Festival 2026 on Sunday, November 1, at Speke Resort Munyonyo. The event celebrated Indian culture, unity, community spirit and the spirit of giving.
The event aimed to:
(a) Regional Ugandan and Indian cuisine.
(b) Cultural performances celebrating both communities.
(c) Family-friendly entertainment.
(d) Fireworks to close the festivities.
Now a prominent fixture on Uganda’s social and cultural calendar, the festival brings together thousands of people from diverse communities to celebrate Diwali through an exciting blend of traditional cuisine, cultural performances, entertainment and family activities, while showcasing the enduring friendship and strong cultural ties between India and Uganda.
Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, whose continued generosity and support in hosting the festival at Speke Resort Munyonyo for many years have helped establish it as a landmark community celebration. His commitment reflects the important role of private sector leadership in bringing communities together.
Organised by the Indian Association Uganda under the chairmanship of Mr. Paresh Mehta, the festival also provides an opportunity to recognise the Indian community’s contribution to Uganda’s social, economic and humanitarian development.
Beyond the cultural festivities, the Indian Association Uganda continues to play a vital role in philanthropy and community development through a range of impactful humanitarian initiatives. These include life-saving heart surgeries for underprivileged children, large-scale blood donation campaigns, medical outreach camps, educational scholarships, support for schools and other charitable programmes aimed at improving lives and uplifting communities across Uganda.
Mr. Mehta’s leadership, the Association has continued to strengthen its community outreach, bringing together its member associations, corporate partners and well-wishers around a shared commitment to service, compassion and national development.
The Diwali Food Festival 2026 will feature more than 100 food and exhibition stalls, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the rich diversity of Indian cuisine. The festival will also feature exciting entertainment, family-friendly activities, a grand prize draw with attractive giveaways, spectacular fireworks and a host of other attractions for guests of all ages.
Beyond the food, entertainment and festivities, the event celebrates the Indian community’s deep-rooted connection with Uganda, a country that generations of Indians have proudly called home. It also recognises the enduring bonds of friendship, shared heritage and mutual respect between the two communities.
As the festival brings people together under the unifying message of Diwali, its broader significance lies in promoting unity, friendship, generosity and service to humanity.
The Indian Association Uganda warmly invites Ugandans from all walks of life, members of the diplomatic community and friends of India to join the celebrations at Speke Resort Munyonyo for a memorable celebration of culture, community and togetherness.
Diwali is more than a celebration of lights; it is a reminder that the true spirit of the festival lies in spreading hope, kindness and happiness, and bringing light into the lives of others.
