Here’s what you need to know:
- Aga Khan IV passed away, marking the end of his long and influential leadership.
- A private funeral was held in Lisbon, attended by dignitaries and leaders from around the world.
- His eldest son, Rahim, will succeed him as Aga Khan V.
- The Ismaili community, with millions of members worldwide, prepares for a new chapter.
A Final Farewell in Lisbon
Ismaili Muslims from around the globe convened in Lisbon, Portugal, to honor Aga Khan IV. The private funeral ceremony was a solemn occasion, attended by numerous dignitaries and foreign leaders, underscoring the respect and influence Aga Khan IV held on the global stage.
Among the notable attendees were Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Qatar Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, and former Spanish king Juan Carlos I. Their presence highlighted the Aga Khan’s significant impact beyond religious circles, extending into international politics and humanitarian efforts.
Who Was Aga Khan IV?
Prince Karim al-Husseini, known as Aga Khan IV, passed away at the age of 88. He was revered as a direct descendant of the Prophet Mohammed and held a near-divine status as the 49th hereditary imam of the Ismaili Nizaris, a Shia Islam branch. He assumed leadership in 1957, succeeding his grandfather, and dedicated his life to improving the lives of his followers and communities worldwide.
Born in Geneva on December 13, 1936, Aga Khan IV inherited a legacy of philanthropy and community development. His father, Ali, was excluded from succession due to his marriage to actress Rita Hayworth. Aga Khan IV expanded his grandfather’s work by establishing hospitals, housing, and banking cooperatives in developing countries.
A Legacy of Philanthropy and Development
Aga Khan IV invested a substantial portion of his family’s wealth in some of the world’s most disadvantaged countries. His approach combined philanthropic endeavors with sound business practices. To this end, he established the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), a massive foundation employing approximately 96,000 individuals globally. The AKDN funds numerous development programs, primarily in Asia and Africa, focusing on areas such as healthcare, education, and poverty reduction.
In addition to his philanthropic work, Aga Khan IV was a keen racehorse owner, continuing a family tradition of breeding thoroughbreds in France and Ireland. His horses have competed in and won many prestigious races.
The New Aga Khan: Rahim to Take the Helm
Following the funeral, Aga Khan IV’s remains were buried in Aswan, southern Egypt. His eldest son, 53-year-old Rahim, will succeed him, assuming the title of Aga Khan V. An inauguration ceremony is scheduled at the community’s headquarters in Lisbon, marking the beginning of his leadership.
What’s Next for the Ismaili Community?
The Ismailis, the world’s second-largest Shia Muslim group, number between 12 and 15 million members worldwide. They reside mainly in Central and South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. With the transition to Aga Khan V, the community looks forward to continuing its tradition of philanthropy, development, and spiritual guidance.
This transition marks a significant moment for the Ismaili community as they embrace new leadership while honoring the legacy of Aga Khan IV. The community remains committed to its core values of compassion, service, and progress.
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