On February 4, 2025, Prince Shah Rahim Al-Hussaini became the 50th Imam of Nizari Ismailis, succeeding his father, Prince Karim Al-Husseini, who passed away on February 4, 2025
Early Family Legacy
The Aga Khan's family has a rich historical background. The title "Aga Khan" was first bestowed in 1818 by the Persian Qājār king to Ḥasan ʿAlī Shah, marking the beginning of a remarkable dynasty The family has deep roots in Islamic leadership, with each successive Aga Khan playing a significant role in community development and global philanthropy.Aga Khan Age, Wikipedia, Biography, Net Worth, Religion, Children, Wife, Family
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ḥasan ʿalī Shāh (Aga Khan I) |
| Birth Year | 1800 |
| Death Year | April 1881 |
| Title Origin | Granted by shah of Iran in 1818 |
| Religious Role | Imam of Nizārī Ismāʿīlīte sect of Shīʿite Muslims |
| Lineage Claim | Descended from ʿAlī and Prophet Muḥammad's daughter Fāṭimah |
| Notable Achievements | - Helped British in Anglo-Afghan War (1839–42) |
| - Conquered Sindh (1842–43) | |
| Won legal case establishing community leadership (1866) | |
| Subsequent Imams | - Aga Khan II: ʿAlī Shah (brief period) |
| - Aga Khan III: Sultan Sir Moḥammed Shah | |
| Aga Khan IV: Prince Shah Karim al-Husseini (current) |
Spiritual and Philanthropic Mission
A Global Community LeaderThe Ismaili Muslim community is a diverse, global network spanning multiple continents. Members live in Central Asia, the Middle East, South Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America. As spiritual leaders, the Aga Khans have consistently advocated for:- Compassion and tolerance
- Human dignity
- Interfaith understanding
- Community development
Humanitarian Achievements
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) represents an extraordinary philanthropic effort. The organization includes:- Aga Khan Health Services
- Aga Khan Schools
- Aga Khan Agency for Microfinance
- Aga Khan Foundation
- Aga Khan Agency for Habitat
- Two universities: Aga Khan University and University of Central Asia
Leadership Philosophy
The previous Aga Khan, Karim Al-Husseini, established important principles for his community:- Encourage followers to be citizens of their resident countries
- Support communities facing persecution
- Promote education and economic development
- Build bridges between Muslim societies and the West
Personal Background
Prince Karim Al-Husseini became Aga Khan IV at just 20 years old in 1957. He was:- Born in Geneva, Switzerland on December 13, 1936
- Educated at Harvard University
- Graduated with a degree in Islamic history
- Known for his business acumen and philanthropic work
Global Impact
The Aga Khan's influence extended beyond spiritual leadership. He was:- Estimated to have a net worth of over US$13.3 billion
- Recognized as one of the world's fifteen richest royals
- A British and Portuguese citizen
- A notable racehorse owner and breeder
Continuing a Legacy
The new Aga Khan V continues this remarkable tradition of spiritual leadership, community service, and global philanthropy. His mission remains focused on improving human lives through education, healthcare, and economic development.
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