Numerous distinguished entrepreneurs and various notable figures paid their respects to the late Ram Buxani, as his funeral took place in Dubai on Wednesday. The seasoned Indian businessman, aged 83, passed away on Monday, July 8, at his residence around 1am. The funeral of this esteemed entrepreneur attracted a diverse crowd, including many of his long-time friends and business partners, who had the opportunity to view his final remains.
Prominent entrepreneur MA Yusuff Ali and Indian Consul General Satish Sivan were among the hundreds who attended the service at the Jebel Ali crematorium on Wednesday afternoon. The family of the celebrated individual was also in attendance, comprising his wife, children, and nephew. Dr Buxani, who arrived in the UAE at the age of 18 in 1959, went on to establish a business empire valued at over Dh1 billion. Known not only as a successful entrepreneur but also as a philanthropist, he held positions such as a member of the India Club, chairman of the Indian High School, and founder of the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC).
Several attendees remembered Dr Buxani as a compassionate and generous man. Indian photographer Manikandan, who had known him for over 30 years, last saw him two weeks ago. “He had attended the last IBPC meeting in June,” Manikandan recalled. “Every time we met, he would inquire about my well-being and that of my family.” Manikandan noted that Dr Buxani had recently taken a step back from active participation in IBPC proceedings, but at the last meeting, he requested to be seated at the front.
Starting his career as an employee at ITL Cosmos Group, Dr Buxani eventually rose to become the chairman of the group, expanding its operations into various sectors including hospitality, IT, F&B, and other emirates. K V Shamsudheen, founder and director of Barjeel Geojit Financial Services LLC, shared a long-standing relationship with Dr Buxani. “I had more than 50 years of close association with him,” Shamsudheen stated. “He was always supportive of my efforts for the welfare of non-resident Indians.” Shamsudheen also remembered Dr Buxani's role in inviting him to join the Overseas Indian Economic Forum (OIEF) and his ongoing support throughout his tenure.
