Aga Khan IV, Spiritual Leader and Philanthropist, Dies at 88
Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community and a prominent global philanthropist, has passed away at the age of 88 in Lisbon, Portugal. According to an official announcement by the Ismaili Imamat Divan and the Aga Khan Development Network, he died peacefully surrounded by his family. The 49th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims led his community for over six decades, balancing his spiritual leadership with extensive humanitarian work, business ventures, and cultural preservation efforts. His successor has been designated in his will, which will be read in the presence of his family and senior Ismaili leaders before being publicly announced.
Born on December 13, 1936, in Geneva, Switzerland, Prince Karim Aga Khan was raised in a family known for its contributions to education, diplomacy, and community service. He received his early education at Le Rosey School in Switzerland before pursuing higher studies at Harvard University, where he specialized in Islamic history and Eastern civilizations. At the age of 20, he was appointed as the Imam of the Ismaili Muslim community in 1957 following the passing of his grandfather, Aga Khan III. His grandfather’s decision to bypass his own son, Prince Aly Khan, in favor of the young Karim was based on the belief that the new leader needed to be someone who had been raised in the modern age and was well-prepared to address the evolving challenges facing the community.
During his leadership, Aga Khan IV played a pivotal role in advancing education, healthcare, economic development, and cultural preservation across multiple continents. In 1967, he founded the Aga Khan Development Network, one of the largest private international development organizations in the world, with operations in over 30 countries and an annual budget exceeding $1 billion dedicated to nonprofit initiatives. The network has established hospitals, universities, schools, and infrastructure projects in some of the most underdeveloped regions, particularly in Africa, South Asia, and Central Asia. His efforts led to the creation of key institutions such as Aga Khan University, the Institute of Ismaili Studies, and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, all of which have played a significant role in advancing research, education, and heritage conservation.
Beyond his philanthropic work, Aga Khan IV was also known for his vast business empire and wealth, with estimates of his fortune ranging from $800 million to $13 billion. His financial holdings spanned industries such as real estate, tourism, media, and banking, and his business ventures were often tied to his philanthropic mission. His work in economic development provided employment opportunities and financial resources for thousands of people in underserved communities. Despite his significant wealth and a lifestyle that included private jets, a superyacht worth $200 million, and a private island in the Bahamas, he remained committed to using his resources for humanitarian purposes. He was also deeply involved in the world of thoroughbred horse racing, where he gained international recognition as one of the most successful racehorse owners. His horses, including legendary champions such as Shergar, Sea the Stars, and Sinndar, won prestigious races like the Epsom Derby, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, and the 2,000 Guineas.
Prince Karim Aga Khan was widely respected as a bridge between Eastern and Western traditions, promoting dialogue and cooperation between diverse cultures and communities. His advocacy for pluralism, interfaith harmony, and inclusive development earned him global recognition. He was granted the title of “His Highness” by Queen Elizabeth II in 1957 and was the recipient of more than 70 international honors, including the Grand Cross of Portugal and honorary degrees from leading universities. He addressed international institutions such as the United Nations and Canada’s Parliament, emphasizing the importance of knowledge, ethical leadership, and sustainable development in global progress.
His personal life drew public interest, particularly his two marriages. In 1969, he married British model Sarah Croker Poole, with whom he had three children: Princess Zahra, Prince Rahim, and Prince Hussain. They divorced in 1995. He later married Gabriele zu Leiningen, a German-born aristocrat, in 1998, and they had a son, Prince Aly Muhammad, before divorcing in 2014.
With his passing, the Ismaili community now awaits the announcement of his successor. According to Ismaili tradition, the Imam is chosen from among his male descendants or close relatives. The date and details of the funeral proceedings have not yet been announced, but he will be buried in Lisbon.
His death marks the end of an era for the Ismaili community and the extensive global network of development initiatives that flourished under his leadership. Leaders, scholars, and institutions around the world have expressed their condolences, recognizing his lasting impact on education, healthcare, economic progress, and cultural preservation. His legacy will continue through the institutions he established, the humanitarian programs he championed, and the millions of people whose lives were improved through his vision and dedication.
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