Vijay Rupani Funeral: A Peaceful Farewell Amid a Controversial Legacy

Vijay Rupani Funeral : On June 16, 2025, the political landscape of Gujarat was struck by grief as former Chief Minister Vijay Rupani passed away. Known for his soft-spoken demeanor, political acumen, and a legacy interwoven with both development and dissent, Rupani’s demise marks the end of an era in Gujarat politics.

2. Vijay Rupani: A Life Remembered

Born on August 2, 1956, Vijay Rupani was a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and served as Gujarat’s Chief Minister from August 2016 to September 2021. His tenure was marked by ambitious infrastructure projects, a firm stance on law and order, and managing state affairs during the initial COVID-19 wave.

He also served as MLA from Rajkot West and was known for his loyalty to the party’s core leadership. His journey from a student activist with ABVP to a prominent BJP face remains inspirational to many.

3. The Final Hours: What Happened

Vijay Rupani had been battling health issues for some time. According to official sources, he was admitted to Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad on June 15, complaining of chest pain. Despite medical intervention, he succumbed to a cardiac arrest at 2:15 AM on June 16 Vijay Rupani Funeral .

Doctors stated that he was brought in a critical condition, and though the medical team tried resuscitation protocols, he was declared dead after 45 minutes of emergency treatment.

4. Arrival at Civil Hospital Ahmedabad

Vijay Rupani Funeral By early morning, family members, close associates, and BJP party workers had gathered at Civil Hospital. The premises were filled with emotion, and a security perimeter was established.

Key Moments:
- Wife Anjali Rupani seen weeping beside the body.
- Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi reached early to coordinate arrangements.
- CM Bhupendra Patel visited by 7:30 AM and consoled the family.

5. Political Reactions and Tributes

Leaders from all major parties expressed condolences.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted:
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Vijay Rupani Ji. His service to Gujarat and the BJP will always be remembered.”
Rahul Gandhi, in a rare gesture, tweeted condolences and called him a “committed public servant.”
Amit Shah visited the family personally and announced that Rupani’s cremation would be held with state honors.

6. Public Mourning and Civilian Turnout

Thousands of citizens, especially from Rajkot, Surat, and Ahmedabad, gathered outside Civil Hospital and later at the cremation venue.

Many remembered him as a “silent doer” and “a leader with no arrogance.”

One Rajkot businessman said,

“He was one of us. Even as CM, he never stopped listening.”

7. Vijay Rupani Funeral : Time, Rituals, and Cremation

Antim Darshan: 2 PM to 4 PM at BJP Headquarters, Ahmedabad
Last Rites: 5:30 PM at Thaltej Crematorium
State Honors: 21-gun salute, tricolor draped coffin

Pandits from Somnath Temple were invited for Vedic rituals, which were carried out by his son Raghav Rupani.

8. Family Statement and Emotional Scenes

In a statement issued by the family:

“We are overwhelmed by the love and respect shown. Vijaybhai lived for the people, and we hope his legacy lives on in action and service.”

Daughter-in-law and daughter broke down while performing the rituals, leaving even hardened political observers teary-eyed.

9. Controversial Moments in His Career

Despite his clean image, Rupani faced criticism during:

COVID-19 mismanagement accusations in 2020.
Frequent cabinet reshuffles under his tenure.
Alleged delay in industrial approvals in Saurashtra.

Opposition often labeled him as “Delhi-dependent,” hinting at tight control from the central BJP.

10. Legacy in Gujarat’s Political History

Vijay Rupani will be remembered for :

Strengthening urban infrastructure.
Digitizing governance at the local level.
Promoting Gujarat as an investment hub.

Vijay Rupani Funeral His legacy also includes being a loyalist who never questioned party commands—even stepping down silently in 2021 when the high command demanded.

11. Supporters’ Perspective

To BJP workers, Rupani was more than a politician—he was a guide. His discipline, punctuality, and accessibility made him beloved among the cadre.

“He answered every call, attended every booth-level meeting. That’s rare.” — BJP Block Leader, Rajkot

12. Critics’ Commentary Vijay Rupani Funeral

Congress leaders and political analysts acknowledge his service but point out:

Lack of bold reforms.
Not pushing back against “central interference.”
Failing to resolve agricultural crises in 2019–20.

Still, most agreed his personal integrity was beyond reproach.

13. His Role in BJP’s Growth in Gujarat

Rupani played a critical part in:

Smooth power transition post-Anandiben Patel.
Groundwork for 2022 Gujarat Assembly victory.
Managing intra-party factionalism.

He also helped the BJP maintain its image of continuity and stability during difficult years.

14. What He Leaves Behind

A deeply loyal and humbled image.
Dozens of public works in Rajkot and Ahmedabad.
A family that stood beside him quietly, away from political limelight.

15. Impact on Gujarat Politics After His Death

Likely rise in nostalgia politics.
BJP may name a Rajkot flyover or hospital after him.
Emotional wave could be used in upcoming municipal elections.

Opposition too may use his moderate tone to contrast against rising aggression in politics.

16.Vijay Rupani Funeral Venue: Why It Matters

Choosing Thaltej Crematorium over Rajkot was symbolic—a recognition of Ahmedabad as the power center but also an inclusive gesture.

It was also easier for national leaders to attend from Delhi and Mumbai.

17. National Mourning vs Local Sentiment

Vijay Rupani Funeral Though there was no national holiday declared, Gujarat observed a one-day mourning with all flags at half-mast. Rajkot businesses voluntarily shut down in solidarity.

18. Conclusion

Vijay Rupani’s death is a reminder that in Indian politics, it is not just the loudest who matter. Sometimes, the silent and disciplined workers shape the destiny of a state. As his body turned to ashes at sunset, his legacy was etched in the hearts of many—admired by supporters, and acknowledged by critics.

19. FAQs

Q1: When did Vijay Rupani die?

He passed away in the early hours of June 16, 2025, due to a cardiac arrest.

Q2: Where was he admitted?

Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad.

Q3: Where was the funeral held?

Thaltej Crematorium, Ahmedabad, with full state honors.

Q4: Was his death sudden?

Yes, he had recent health issues, but no serious public diagnosis was made earlier.

Q5: How did leaders respond?

PM Modi, Amit Shah, CM Patel, and other political leaders paid rich tributes.