Aga Khan, leader of Ismaili Muslims, dead at 88
Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims around the world, has passed away at the age of 88. The news of his peaceful passing in Lisbon on Tuesday has left a void in the hearts of 15 million Ismailis across 35 countries, who have not mourned the loss of a spiritual leader in over a generation.
The Aga Khan, who succeeded his grandfather at the young age of 20 in 1957, was a pivotal figure in the Ismaili community. His grandfather, Sultan Muhammad Shah, broke tradition by skipping his own son in the line of succession and naming Prince Karim as the ruler of the family’s 1,300-year dynasty. The title of Aga Khan, meaning commanding chief, was originally granted to his great-great-grandfather in the 1830s by the emperor of Persia.
Beyond his spiritual leadership, the Aga Khan was known for his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropy. He was a jet-setting millionaire who poured millions into charitable causes around the world. His connection to Canada was particularly strong, as the nation welcomed thousands of Ismaili refugees expelled from Uganda in 1972. The Aga Khan’s relationship with the Trudeau family led to an expenses scandal for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau when he vacationed on the leader’s private island in 2016.
Born in Geneva in 1936, the Aga Khan spent his early years in Nairobi, Kenya, before moving to Switzerland and later studying Islamic history at Harvard University. He was known for his passion for horse racing and breeding, with one of his horses, Shergar, gaining international fame before being kidnapped in 1983.
The Aga Khan’s philanthropic efforts led to the establishment of the Aga Khan Development Network in 1967. The network, comprised of international development agencies, has made significant contributions to building schools, hospitals, and providing electricity to millions of people in Africa and Asia. His impact on Canadian society has been profound, with countless individuals benefiting from his contributions to the country.
As the Ismaili community and the world mourn the loss of a compassionate and visionary leader, the Aga Khan’s legacy of generosity and service will continue to inspire future generations. His successor will be announced in due course, but the memory of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched with his kindness and dedication to improving the lives of others.
