Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, more famously known as
Aga Khan IV
, was an 88-year-old man who died on February 4, 2025, in Lisbon, Portugal. He was a spiritual icon to millions of Ismaili Muslims and also one of the world's most prominent philanthropists. According to the AKDN, he had passed away peacefully in his sleep with his family by his side. His successor shall be named, upon reading of his will. This shall be done in the view of family members and religious leaders present.
Who was Aga Khan?
Prince Karim
Aga Khan
was born in Geneva and spent his early years in Kenya. After the death of his grandfather, he became the Imam of the Ismaili Muslims in Tanzania. He was a very private figure despite his fame, often avoiding politically sensitive issues like Middle Eastern conflicts. In a 2017 interview with AFP, he was quoted saying, "Islam is not a faith of conflict or social disorder; it's a religion of peace." His work in global development and interfaith dialogue has made him a lasting figure in both international philanthropy and cultural diplomacy.
Aga Khan IV’s legacy continues through his three sons, a daughter, and many grandchildren. The name of his successor will be revealed after the reading of his will, and his work will continue through the Ismaili community as part of his legacy.
Aga Khan IV: Early life, leadership, and philanthropic legacy
He was born on December 13, 1936, in Creux-de-Genthod, Switzerland. He became the 49th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims at the age of 20 in 1957, after succeeding his grandfather, Aga Khan III. His grandfather chose him over his father, Aly Khan, for the position, as he thought that Aly Khan was not a suitable candidate to hold the position in the modern world. Under his leadership, his AKDN grew significantly. This global philanthropic group works toward education, health care, shelter, and infrastructure development in more than 30 countries. With an annual budget of about $1 billion, AKDN has contributed significantly to the advancement of development work in Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan.
Aga Khan IV was highly devoted to charity and emphasized the point that it was a moral burden on the privileged to assist others. He said in an interview with Vanity Fair in 2012 that it is wealth itself that is not evil, but those who are lucky have an obligation to society. His philosophy is reflected in his practice of giving 12.5% of his income annually as religious duty, a practice that supported his personal wealth and extensive charitable work.
Aga Khan IV's role in bridging cultures and his philanthropic endeavors
Another credit he was given for his work is to facilitate dialogue between the Muslim world and the West. Although he steered clear of politics, he played an important role in facilitating understanding and cultural exchange. He established the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, which gives innovative architectural designs combining Islamic traditions with modernity. He also initiated restoration work at significant Islamic heritage sites, including Humayun's Tomb in Delhi.
His influence went far beyond the realms of the spirit and culture. In 1957, he was granted the title "His Highness" by Queen Elizabeth II, citing his international recognition. In 2013, Vanity Fair declared him a figure who "bridges so many divides—between the spiritual and the material; East and West; Muslim and Christian." Aga Khan IV's private life was an epitome of his enormous wealth and philanthropy. As a billionaire with diversified business interests, he was known in the global racing community for breeding legendary horses such as Shergar, the winner of the 1981 Derby. He also invested in other sectors, including media, through his founding of the Nation Media Group, the largest independent media organization in East and Central Africa.
He spent most of his life on a private island in the Bahamas, where he had a super-yacht and a private jet, yet still, the Aga Khan did not cease working for charity. In 2008, his net worth according to Forbes stood at about an estimated $1 billion that he mostly used on development projects within the globe majorly on the education sector, health sectors and infrastructure sectors.
Tributes from across the globe honor Aga Khan IV’s spiritual and charitable legacy
Tributes streamed in from across the globe after his demise. The Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, lauded him as "an extraordinary man of vision, faith, and generosity" and "a very good friend." United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres described him as a symbol of peace, tolerance, and compassion in a troubled world. Nobel Peace laureate Malala Yousafzai honored his legacy, especially on issues of education, health, and development. King Charles III was also upset by the Aga Khan's death since he was close to both the King and late Queen Elizabeth II. The memory of the Aga Khan would live on as much for his humanitarian work with his worldwide foundation and charity endeavors as for being a spiritual leader.
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