Aswan, Egypt – The beloved Prince Karim, known as the Aga Khan IV, was laid to rest on Sunday at a private ceremony in Aswan. The announcement of his death on Tuesday by the Aga Khan Development Network marked the end of an era for the millions of Ismaili Muslims worldwide.
Prince Karim, who passed away at 88, was interred near his grandfather, Sultan Muhammad Shah, and grandmother, Om Habiba, at his own request.
His son, Rahim Al-Hussaini, aged 53, has been designated as the Aga Khan V, in accordance with his father’s wishes, ensuring the continuation of the family’s 1,300-year-old legacy.
Visibly touched mourners attended his funeral service at the Ismaili community center in Lisbon on Saturday, with notable figures including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Spain’s King Emeritus Juan Carlos.
Aga Khan IV was revered as a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and treated as a head of state by his followers. Throughout his life, he evolved into a significant business leader and philanthropist, bridging the gap between Islamic values and Western societies.
His philanthropic organization, the Aga Khan Development Network, focuses on health care, education, and economic development, operating in over 30 countries with a budget of approximately $1 billion annually. Ismailis, who have historically resided in regions including Iran and South Asia, are known to donate up to 12.5% of their income to support their spiritual leader.
The legacy of the Aga Khan IV will undoubtedly endure in the hearts and humanitarian efforts of the Ismaili community.
