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The Aga Khan IV Passes Away at 88

The Aga Khan IV Passes Away at 88

Lisbon, February 5, 2025 – The Europe Today: His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, the Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community, passed away on Tuesday in Portugal at the age of 88, surrounded by his family.

The Aga Khan Foundation and the Ismaili religious community announced his passing on their official websites, stating that an announcement regarding his successor will be made later.

Born in 1936, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV assumed the role of Imam at the age of 20 while still an undergraduate at Harvard University, succeeding his grandfather, the Aga Khan III. His grandfather had bypassed his own son to appoint Prince Karim, believing the Ismaili community needed a leader raised in the modern era.

Over the decades, the Aga Khan combined spiritual leadership with philanthropy and business acumen, establishing a vast network of humanitarian projects. His Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) spearheaded initiatives in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, particularly in developing nations.

Recognized globally, the Aga Khan was granted the title of “His Highness” by Queen Elizabeth II in 1957, shortly after his unexpected ascension as leader of the Ismaili Muslim sect. His leadership and contributions cemented his legacy as a visionary figure dedicated to uplifting communities worldwide.