“He will remain an inspiration for generations of Indians who call the UAE home. His hard work, entrepreneurial spirit, and service to the Indian community will always be remembered.”
— Indian Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir
The Indian business community in Dubai mourns the loss of Ram Buxani, a pioneering businessman who passed away shortly after midnight on Monday, as confirmed by his family. He was 83 years old and is survived by his wife, three daughters, and seven grandchildren.
Ram Buxani was the Chairman of the ITL Cosmos Group, a diversified business conglomerate involved in distribution, retail, and manufacturing. He was one of the first Indians to settle in Dubai, arriving in 1959 as an office assistant. Over six decades, he significantly contributed to the company’s growth and the broader business landscape in Dubai.
Buxani’s influence extended beyond business. He was the Founder-Chairman of the Overseas Indians Economic Forum, which later merged with the Indian Business and Professional Council in 2003. In recognition of his contributions to the NRI community, he received a shield from the President of India in 1983.
As a proud Sindhi, Buxani dedicated much of his life to promoting the culture and heritage of the Indian community. He authored the book “Sindhis—God’s Gift to Global Economy,” celebrating the resilience and success of the Sindhi community. His autobiography, “Taking the High Road,” chronicles his personal journey and Dubai’s transformation from a small trading post to a global business hub.
His leadership roles included serving as chairman of the India Club Dubai (1990-1994, 2012-2015) and the Indian High School Dubai (2000-2004).
Known for his captivating stories, Buxani often shared anecdotes from his early days in Dubai. He vividly recalled his arrival by boat from Mumbai in 1959 when Dubai was still part of the Trucial States. “It was drizzling when I stepped out of the boat. Dubai was a small place, and I saw the entire city in half an hour. Everyone knew everyone here,” he once said in an interview.
Buxani described life in Dubai before the advent of modern amenities, recalling limited electricity and the use of kerosene lamps. He also reminisced about Bur Dubai’s Meena Bazaar, explaining how it got its name from the Delhi Red Fort’s Meena Bazaar, evoking a sense of nostalgia and cultural connection.
As a proud Sindhi, Buxani dedicated much of his life to promoting the culture and heritage of the Indian community. He authored the book “Sindhis—God’s Gift to Global Economy,” celebrating the resilience and success of the Sindhi community. His autobiography, “Taking the High Road,” chronicles his personal journey and Dubai’s transformation from a small trading post to a global business hub.
Indian Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir paid tribute to Buxani, saying, “The passing of Ram Buxani is a sad moment. The community has lost a guide, a role model, and a mentor. Buxani has done the Indian community in the UAE proud. He will remain an inspiration for generations of Indians who call the UAE home. His hard work, entrepreneurial spirit, and service to the Indian community will always be remembered.”
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