
Aga Khan, Spiritual Leader of Ismaili, Passes Away at 88
- Interfaith
- February 5, 2025
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Aga Khan, Spiritual Leader of Ismaili, Passes Away at 88
Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the revered spiritual leader of the Ismaili Shia community and a global philanthropist, has passed away at the age of 88 in Lisbon, Portugal.
A figure of immense influence, the Aga Khan dedicated his life to humanitarian efforts, championing education, healthcare, and cultural preservation through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). His passing marks the end of an era for millions of Ismaili worldwide.
A Legacy of Philanthropy and Leadership
Born on December 13, 1936, in Geneva, Switzerland, the Aga Khan spent his early years in Nairobi, Kenya, before attending Le Rosey School in Switzerland and later pursuing Islamic history at Harvard University.
At just 20 years old, he ascended to the position of 49th Imam of the Ismaili in 1957 following the death of his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan. Over nearly seven decades of leadership, he expanded the Ismaili community’s role in global development, emphasizing pluralism, social welfare, and infrastructure projects in underprivileged regions.
His influence extended far beyond religious leadership. Under his guidance, the AKDN became one of the world’s most extensive private development organizations, funding initiatives in education, healthcare, economic development, and cultural heritage preservation across Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East.
Succession and Burial
According to Ismaili tradition, a successor will be chosen from the Aga Khan’s male progeny. The official announcement regarding his successor is expected soon.
The Aga Khan will be laid to rest in Lisbon, Portugal, where he had been residing in recent years. His passing leaves behind a grieving global Ismaili community, as well as his three sons, one daughter, and several grandchildren.
Global Tributes
World leaders, dignitaries, and religious figures have expressed their condolences, recognizing the Aga Khan’s profound contributions to humanity. His work in fostering interfaith dialogue, economic empowerment, and cultural conservation remains a testament to his lifelong vision of progress and unity.