MONTEGO BAY, St James — Known for the impeccable taste showcased at his haute couture boutique Deja Vu, fashion designer and businessman Rajesh Kripalani was remembered on Wednesday as someone who dressed the movers and shakers of Montego Bay’s tourism industry, and a celebrated family man who will be missed.

He passed away on March 23, 2024, surrounded by family. On Wednesday many loyal clients were among those who turned up to pay their last respects. The funeral, a sometimes tearful affair, drew on the customs of his homeland, India.

Among those in attendance was Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett who spoke of the close bond he and Kripalani shared.

“Raj was my friend, a really good friend. We had so many good moments together,” the minister told the Jamaica Observer.

“Among many things, he was responsible for taking care of my appearance. His store, Deja Vu, was my store in the context of being where I go to find the best shirts and generally the best outfits,” he continued.

He said Kripalani had been a part of many of his momentous occasions over the years.

“Carmen and I were privileged, I think, to have him at our 50th anniversary. And he gave a gift that is really lasting, one that — in my mind — stays as a legacy,” said Bartlett.

During his time as a fashion designer Kripalani outfitted both genders with his signature look of relaxed sophistication. The wide cross section of the Montego Bay business community that attended his funeral was an indicator of his legendary talent and the fondness with which he was regarded.

Among those present was real estate developer Angela Whitter; Indru Dedlani of Casa De Oro; Odette Dyer of Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB); and executive director of Montego Bay Convention Centre, Maureen James.

“I think all of Montego Bay mourns Raj’s passing because he touched the lives of so many people and he was like a little social butterfly in the Montego Bay space,” Bartlett remarked.

Kripalani came to Jamaica about 37 years ago as a 17-year-old. He initially worked at Tropicana Jewellers. Managing Director Kishin Samtani provided some insight into his early life.

“We had the pleasure of meeting him, knowing him for so many years. He was with us until he branched off on his own. He was just a great human being,” said Samtani.

In addition to his wife Neha and his children Akshay and Ankit, Rajesh Kripalani is survived by his father Nari, mother Deepa, sister Bindhu, and his brother Rahul.