A NEW era of Aga Khan-V, Prince Rahim, has emerged after the sad demise of his beloved father and a legendary historical icon for humanitarian works, well-known Prince Karim Aga Khan-IV, who died recently aged 88 in Lisbon, Portugal. Born on Dec 13, 1936, in Geneva, Prince Karim got his early education in Switzerland and subsequently pursued a master’s degree in Islamic History from Harvard in the United States.

He belonged to a dynasty having a long history of human service and leadership. He was the grandson of Aga Khan-III, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah, a statesman who had played a vital role in the creation of Pakistan, being the first president of the All-India Muslim League in 1906. He had donated Rs3 million to the famed Aligarh University to turn Sir Syed Ahmed Khan’s dreams into reality.

Prince Karim had succeeded his grandfather at the age of 20 as the 49th Imam of the Nizari Ismaili community in 1957. His ascension signified the comm-encement of a leadership era that was dedicated to the modernisation and advancement of Ismaili and broader Muslim communities, with a particular emphasis on institutional development, economic empowerment, health, education and philanthropy.

Prince Karim also influenced global diplomacy by collaborating with the European Union, the World Bank and the United Nations to promote social deve-lopment and international cooperation, especially in Africa and Asia.

Prince Karim’s vision was centred on the principles of ethical leadership, education and pluralism. He advocated interfaith dialogue and peace-building efforts, emphasising the importance of mutual respect and coexistence among cultures and faiths.

Prince Karim focussed on bridging the divide between tradition and modernity. His legacy serves as a source of optimism and progress for the future generations. Though Prince Karim has left us, his great vision for the Muslim world and the humanity and at large would continue to provide guidance. He will always be remembered as a visionary spiritual leader who changed the world as a champion of humanitarian work.

His elder son, Prince Rahim, Aga Khan-V, the newly appointed 50th Imam of the community will continue his legacy and commitment, and will continue his mission for a world at peace with itself.

Hameed Alwani
Karachi

Published in Dawn, February 13th, 2025