Pyarali Merali

Pyarali Merali (born December 1930) is a Ugandan architect, known for his work in Pakistan. He was known as "one of the best architects of our time". He moved to Karachi, Pakistan, where in less than a decade he worked on over 300 projects, including schools, residences, banks, offices and sports facilities. His firm was very well known and where many architects launched their careers. He left his firm in the hands of two brothers after departing to Canada. The firm is now known as ASA.

Early life and background Pyarali Merali was born in the early 20th century in East Africa to a family of Indian descent, part of the broader South Asian diaspora that settled in Uganda during the colonial period. Like many Asian entrepreneurs of his generation, he became involved in trade and commerce at a young age.

Business career Merali is best known for his partnership with Muljibhai Madhvani, the founder of Madhvani Group. Together, they helped expand the group's operations, particularly in sugar manufacturing through Kakira Sugar Works, which became one of Uganda's most important agro-industrial enterprises.

Following his expulsion, Merali relocated abroad, where he continued business activities and maintained ties with the Ugandan Asian diaspora.