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HH Prince Aga Khan IV Passes Away at 88, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V named 50th hereditary Imam. The world mourns the passing of His Highness Prince Karim al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, who died in Lisbon, Portugal, at the age of 88. His Highness, a direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) through Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Bibi Fatimat-az-Zahra, led the Ismaili community for 67 years, succeeding his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III, in 1957.
A visionary leader, statesman, and humanitarian, the Aga Khan dedicated his life to the spiritual and material well-being of over 15 million Ismailis across 25 countries. His legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for vulnerable populations through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), a globally renowned institution he founded over 50 years ago.
A Life of Service and Leadership
Born on 13 December 1936 in Geneva, Switzerland, the Aga Khan spent his early years in Nairobi, Kenya, before attending the Institut Le Rosey in Switzerland and graduating from Harvard University with a degree in Islamic History. At just 20 years old, he assumed the role of Imam, guiding the Ismaili community through decades of profound change.
His Highness was a bridge-builder, promoting peace, pluralism, and interfaith understanding. He facilitated diplomatic efforts, including the historic 1985 Geneva summit between Presidents Reagan and Gorbachev, and established the Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa, Canada, to champion diversity and inclusion worldwide.
The Aga Khan Development Network: A Transformative Legacy
The AKDN, one of the world’s most comprehensive development networks, operates in over 30 countries, focusing on health care, education, culture, and economic development. Under the Aga Khan’s leadership, the network established two universities, over 200 schools, and 700 health facilities, impacting millions annually.
His Highness’s commitment to education was unparalleled. He founded the Aga Khan University in Pakistan and the University of Central Asia, while also supporting partnerships with leading institutions like Harvard and MIT. His efforts in promoting gender equality and access to education transformed countless lives.
A Patron of the Arts and Culture
The Aga Khan was a passionate advocate for the arts and cultural preservation. He established the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, the Aga Khan Music Programme, and the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, which houses over 1,000 masterpieces of Islamic art. His initiatives celebrated the rich heritage of Muslim civilizations and fostered cross-cultural understanding.
Sporting Pursuits and Global Recognition
A globally recognized horse owner and breeder, the Aga Khan won numerous prestigious races, including the Epsom Derby and the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. He also represented Iran in the 1964 Winter Olympics as an accomplished skier.
His Highness received 44 international awards, including honorary Canadian citizenship and the UN Champion for Global Change Award. He was honored by nations such as France, Portugal, and Kenya for his contributions to human development.
A New Chapter: Prince Rahim Aga Khan V
Following the passing of His Highness, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V has been named the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. A direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny), Prince Rahim is poised to continue his father’s legacy of leadership, compassion, and service to humanity.
A Global Legacy of Hope
The Aga Khan’s life was a testament to the power of faith, compassion, and action. His vision of a better world, rooted in the ethical principles of Islam, inspired millions. As the Ismaili community and the world bid farewell to a remarkable leader, his legacy will endure through the institutions he built and the lives he touched.
His Highness Prince Karim al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV is survived by his children Princess Zahra, Prince Rahim, Prince Hussain, and Prince Aly Muhammad, his brother Prince Amyn Muhammad, sister Princess Yasmin, and four grandchildren.
