The Aga Khan IV, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, the spiritual leader of millions of Ismaili Muslims, has passed away at the age of 88 in Portugal, surrounded by his family. He became the imam at just 20 while studying at Harvard and devoted his life to philanthropy, establishing the Aga Khan Foundation which directed billions in tithes towards building schools, hospitals, and homes in developing nations.
Throughout his life, the Aga Khan balanced his roles as both a spiritual guide and a successful businessman, impacting communities worldwide through the Aga Khan Development Network. This organisation focused on healthcare, education, and economic development in regions such as Bangladesh, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan, significantly improving the lives of many.
His legacy includes initiatives to preserve Islamic architecture and a commitment to fostering dialogue between Muslim and Western societies. The Aga Khan, who was granted the title of “His Highness” by Queen Elizabeth II in 1957, was acknowledged as a defender of Islamic values and culture without engaging in political conflicts.
He is survived by three sons and a daughter, and an announcement regarding his successor will follow. The Aga Khan’s remarkable journey, which started with the weight of a 1,300-year-old dynasty on his shoulders, has left an indelible mark on the modern world.