Deepshikha Maan, Jadetimes Staff
D. Maan is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia
Aga Khan, Philanthropist and Spiritual Leader, Passes Away at 88
Peaceful Passing in Lisbon
Prince Karim Aga Khan, the 49th hereditary imam of the Ismaili Muslims and a prominent philanthropist, has passed away at the age of 88. The Aga Khan Development Network confirmed that he "passed away peacefully" in Lisbon, Portugal, surrounded by family.
A Global Spiritual Leader
Born in Switzerland, Aga Khan held British citizenship and resided in a French chateau. As the leader of the Ismaili Muslim community, which traces its lineage to the Prophet Muhammad, he guided approximately 15 million followers worldwide, with significant populations in Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, and Africa. He assumed the role of imam in 1957 at the age of 20, succeeding his grandfather.
Condolences from Global Leaders
King Charles is said to be deeply saddened by his passing, as the Aga Khan was a close friend of both the King and the late Queen Elizabeth II. Several world leaders expressed their condolences, including Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who called him a "man of vision, faith, and generosity" and praised his contributions to poverty alleviation, healthcare, and gender equality. Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai highlighted his lasting impact on education, health, and development, while UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described him as a "symbol of peace, tolerance, and compassion in our troubled world."
A Life Dedicated to Philanthropy and Development
Through the Aga Khan Development Network, he established hospitals, educational institutions, and cultural projects, primarily in developing nations. His foundation has been instrumental in various initiatives, including the Aga Khan University in Karachi and the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at Harvard and MIT. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture played a key role in the restoration of historical sites, such as Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi.
A Passion for Horse Racing
Aside from his philanthropic efforts, Aga Khan was a notable figure in the world of horse racing. His love for the sport led him to become a leading breeder and owner in the UK, France, and Ireland. He bred Shergar, one of the most famous racehorses in history, who won the Epsom Derby in 1981 by a record breaking margin before being kidnapped in Ireland two years later. Reflecting on Shergar’s triumph, he once remarked, "It's a memory that can never go away." He continued his breeding legacy, securing multiple Derby victories with horses like Shahrastani, Kahyasi, Sinndar, and Harzand.
Entrepreneurial and Cultural Contributions
His business ventures extended beyond philanthropy and horse racing. He founded the Nation Media Group, now the largest independent media organization in East and Central Africa. His passion for architecture and cultural preservation led to the establishment of the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture.
A Lasting Legacy
With an estimated fortune of $1 billion in 2008, his wealth was inherited and expanded through his business interests. Despite his luxurious lifestyle, which included a private island, a super yacht, and a private jet, he remained committed to humanitarian causes, ensuring that his philanthropic network continued improving lives across the globe.
His passing marks the end of an era for the Ismaili Muslim community and the many global initiatives he championed. His legacy will endure through the institutions he built and the millions of lives he touched.
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