Aga Khan IV, Respected Leader of Ismaili Muslims, Passes Away at 88

Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, known as the Aga Khan IV, has died at the age of 88 in Lisbon, according to a statement from his Aga Khan Development Network on Tuesday. His passing marks the end of a notable chapter for the Ismaili Muslim community, as he was recognized for his innovative approach to intertwining wealth creation with charitable efforts.

Assuming leadership at just 20 years old, the Aga Khan IV harnessed his business acumen to establish himself as one of the wealthiest hereditary rulers globally. His philosophy centered on the belief that personal success should align with community betterment, asserting that leaders should actively engage in enhancing the lives of their followers. He believed the role of an imam extended beyond spiritual guidance into real-world responsibilities, stating, “The notion of the divide between faith and world is foreign to Islam.”

Throughout his lifetime, the Aga Khan IV was instrumental in various significant projects, including the development of Sardinia’s luxurious Costa Smeralda resort, the establishment of health initiatives in underprivileged regions, and the promotion of thoroughbred horse breeding. These endeavors were aimed at not only enhancing his personal legacy but also significantly improving the living conditions of millions within the Ismaili community, which spans 35 countries and numbers around 15 million.

His leadership style was characterized by a blend of urban sophistication and a deliberate evasiveness in the media spotlight, allowing him to focus on his philanthropic and leadership responsibilities without the distractions of fame. The Aga Khan IV leaves behind a profound impact on both his community and the broader world, a testament to his belief that faith should actively inform one's life's work.