Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, the revered spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslim community, passed away on Tuesday in Lisbon at the age of 88. His funeral ceremony will take place on Saturday at the Ismaili Centre in Lisbon, bringing together community leaders, Portuguese officials, and foreign dignitaries. Following the service, he will be privately buried in Aswan, Egypt, on Sunday.
A Legacy of Leadership and Philanthropy
Aga Khan IV dedicated nearly seven decades to guiding the Ismaili community and spearheading global development efforts through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Under his leadership, AKDN became a major force in education, healthcare, cultural preservation, and economic development, improving the lives of millions across Asia, Africa, and beyond. His contributions to humanitarian causes earned him international recognition, including honors from multiple governments and institutions.
The Future of the Ismaili Imamat
Following his passing, his son, Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini, has been named the 50th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslim community, in accordance with his father’s will. The transition marks a new chapter for the Ismaili Imamat, which traces its lineage back to the Prophet Muhammad through his cousin and son-in-law, Ali, and his daughter Fatima.
A Final Resting Place in Aswan
The decision to bury Aga Khan IV in Aswan holds deep significance. The late leader had a strong connection to Egypt, where his grandfather, Aga Khan III, was also laid to rest in a mausoleum overlooking the Nile. The site remains an important pilgrimage destination for Ismailis worldwide.
As the Ismaili community mourns the loss of a visionary leader, the world remembers Aga Khan IV’s unwavering commitment to faith, service, and progress—a legacy that will continue under his successor.
