Billionaire and Spiritual Leader Aga Khan Passes Away at 88
The Aga Khan, a billionaire philanthropist and the 49th hereditary imam of the Ismaili Muslims, has passed away at the age of 88. His death was announced by his charity, the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which stated that he “passed away peacefully” in Lisbon, Portugal, surrounded by his family.
Who Was the Aga Khan?
- Full Name: Prince Karim Aga Khan
- Role: 49th hereditary imam of the Ismaili Muslims, a Shia Muslim sect with approximately 15 million followers worldwide.
- Birth: Born in Switzerland, he held British citizenship and resided in a chateau in France.
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Legacy and Contributions
The Aga Khan was a global figure known for his philanthropy, cultural preservation, and development initiatives. His contributions include:
- Education and Architecture:
- Founded the Aga Khan University in Karachi, Pakistan.
- Established the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
- Cultural Preservation:
- The Aga Khan Trust for Culture played a key role in restoring historical sites, including Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi, India.
- Instituted the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, recognizing excellence in architectural innovation.
- Media and Communication:
- Founded the Nation Media Group, the largest independent media organization in East and Central Africa.
Tributes from World Leaders
- Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif: Described the Aga Khan as a “man of vision, faith, and generosity” who championed poverty alleviation, healthcare, and gender equality.
- Nobel Prize Laureate Malala Yousafzai: Praised his legacy in education, health, and development.
- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres: Called him a “symbol of peace, tolerance, and compassion in our troubled world.”
Personal Life and Interests
- Horse Breeding: The Aga Khan was a renowned owner and breeder of racehorses.
- Lavish Lifestyle: He owned a private island in the Bahamas, a super-yacht, and a private jet.
Succession
The Ismaili community, with a global population of 15 million, including 500,000 in Pakistan, will continue to follow the leadership of the hereditary imam.
Condolences and Legacy
The Aga Khan’s passing marks the end of an era for the Ismaili community and the global development sector. His vision, generosity, and commitment to humanity will continue to inspire future generations.
