Africa-Press – Uganda. The Kololo Independence Grounds burst into colour, music, and cultural pride over the weekend as thousands gathered for India Day 2025, a vibrant celebration that combined heritage with humanitarian purpose.
Organised by the Indian Association Uganda in partnership with the Sindhi Community Uganda, this year’s festivities aimed to raise funds for more than 100 Ugandan children in urgent need of heart surgery.
Taking centre stage in the cause was Kansai Plascon Uganda, which announced a Shs300 million contribution to fully fund critical cardiac interventions for dozens of children suffering from congenital heart defects.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Jain Samaj Temple in Naguru, Kansai Plascon Uganda Managing Director Mr. Santosh Gumte underscored the urgency of the initiative.
“Each year in Uganda, 8,300 children are born with congenital heart defects. Two thousand require immediate intervention, and many of those children come from families who cannot dream of affording such care,” Mr. Gumte said.
“Without timely help, their lives are tragically cut short. We cannot stand by and let that potential fade away. This is why Kansai Plascon is contributing shs 300 million to this cause.”
He noted that the donation will cover all costs for surgeries, including medical care and travel to India, in partnership with the Indian Association Uganda, the Sindhi Community Uganda, and medical institutions in Chennai.
Mr. Paresh R. Mehta, Acting Chairman of the Indian Association Uganda, revealed that the first batch of 50 children would soon depart for India to receive treatment.
“This year’s India Day had to be a celebration with a heartbeat. Thanks to Plascon and other partners, these children and their families will not worry about a single shilling. It’s the true spirit of Ubuntu in action,” Mr. Mehta said.
Other key sponsors included Airtel Uganda, Uganda Airlines, the Rotary Clubs, the Healthy Heart Foundation, Ruparelia Group, and Mount Meru Millers.
The celebrations featured traditional Indian dances, colourful cultural displays, and live performances by Indian Idol finalist Anjana Padmanabhan and Punjabi pop star Guru Randhawa. The night closed with a dazzling fireworks display over Kampala.
Minister of Works and Transport Gen. Katumba Wamala, representing the Ugandan government, praised the Indian community and corporate partners for their role in saving lives and strengthening bilateral ties.
India’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Upender Singh Rawat, commended the partnership between both nations, calling the event a testament to “shared values of compassion and solidarity.”
With Plascon’s significant contribution and the collective effort of sponsors, the organisers hope to expand the initiative and give more children the life-saving care they deserve.
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