Funeral of 49th Imam of the Ismailis Mawlana Shah Karim Held in Lisbon

The global Ismaili community gathered in mourning as the funeral of Mawlana Shah Karim al-Hussaini, the beloved 49th Imam of the Ismailis, took place at the Ismaili Centre in Lisbon. The ceremony was attended by world leaders, dignitaries, and members of the Jamat from across the world, paying tribute to his legacy of service, leadership, and philanthropy.

A Global Farewell

The funeral was broadcast live on The Ismaili TV, allowing millions of Ismailis to participate in prayers and offer their final respects. The event was attended by Mawlana Shah Karim’s successor, Mawlana Rahim al-Hussaini 50th Imam of the Ismailis, alongside his family, and notable global figures, including the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the Prime Minister of Canada and Pakistani Finnance Minister Hafeez Sheikh.

All Ismaili Council Presidents, past and present senior leaders of Imamat Institutions, and representatives of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) were present, underscoring the late Imam’s immense impact on his community and the world.

A Solemn Ceremony

At 11:00 AM local time, members of the Ismaili Volunteers solemnly carried the janaza (casket) into the funeral hall. Draped in a white cloth embroidered with Shah Karim’s personal standard in gold, the casket was placed before the assembled congregation.

The ceremony commenced with the recitation of selected ayats from the Holy Qur’an, followed by the collective chanting of salawat, as mourners bowed their heads in prayer. One by one, attendees filed past the janaza, offering their final respects to Aga Khan IV, a spiritual leader whose wisdom and guidance transformed countless lives.

A Legacy of Service

Throughout his 67-year Imamat, Mawlana Shah Karim dedicated his life to the spiritual and material well-being of the Jamat. He established institutions that empowered communities, promoted education, healthcare, and economic development, and reinforced the importance of faith and unity.

His vision extended beyond the Ismaili community, as he played a pivotal role on the world stage, meeting with heads of state and global leaders, and spearheading initiatives for social progress through the AKDN.

Final Farewell

After the recitation of Fatiha, Mawlana Shah Karim’s family, led by Mawlana Shah Rahim, carried his janaza to the awaiting hearse.