Lisbon, Portugal: Karim al-Husseini Aga Khan, the revered spiritual guide of the Ismaili Muslim community worldwide, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 88 in Lisbon, Portugal. Born on December 13, 1936, in Switzerland, Aga Khan IV became a student while his grandfather, Aga Khan III, was still leading the community.
Aga Khan IV, who studied at Harvard University, was designated as the 49th spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims when his grandfather formally named him as his successor. Over the years, Aga Khan-4 earned recognition not only as a philanthropic businessman but also for his significant contributions to various causes. While he spent a considerable time residing in France, he had been living in Portugal for the past few years. He is survived by three sons and one daughter. His passing has left Ismaili Muslims in mourning worldwide.
Global leaders expressed their condolences following his death. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres lauded him as a symbol of peace, tolerance, and compassion, qualities greatly needed in the modern world. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau described him as a "dear friend and a man of immense kindness." In 1957, Queen Elizabeth bestowed the honor of 'His Highness' upon him, and in 2015, he was awarded India's prestigious Padma Vibhushan. Aga Khan was instrumental in establishing the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which operates across more than 30 nations, focusing on health, education, housing, and rural development for underprivileged populations. With an annual budget of one billion dollars, AKDN has funded numerous projects, including hospitals in Bangladesh, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his condolences, emphasizing that Aga Khan’s legacy would inspire generations.
Rahim al-Husseini Appointed the New Aga Khan
In accordance with the wishes of Aga Khan IV, his son Rahim al-Husseini has been designated as his successor, taking on the title of Aga Khan V. Rahim al-Husseini becomes the 50th direct descendant of the Shia Ismaili Muslim Imams.
