LISBON, Portugal — A private funeral for the 49th hereditary imam of the Shiite Ismaili Muslims, Aga Khan IV, was held in Lisbon.
The ceremony, which took place at the Ismaili community center, was attended by notable figures including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and former King of Spain, Juan Carlos I. Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Lisbon’s mayor were also present to pay their respects.
Following the Lisbon service, the Ismaili community announced that His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini would be interred during a private burial ceremony scheduled for Sunday in Aswan, Egypt.
The announcement of the Aga Khan’s passing was made public on Tuesday by both the Aga Khan Development Network and the Ismaili community. In a timely succession, Rahim Al-Hussaini, at the age of 53, was designated as Aga Khan V the next day, in accordance with his father’s wishes, assuming leadership over millions of Ismaili Muslims worldwide.
As a revered figure, the Aga Khan is viewed by his followers as a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and is often considered to hold a status akin to that of a head of state.
Karim Al-Hussaini received the honorific title of “His Highness” from Queen Elizabeth back in July 1957, shortly after his grandfather, Aga Khan III, unexpectedly named him as his successor to lead the enduring 1,300-year dynasty of the Ismaili sect.
Throughout his life, the Aga Khan was recognized not only as a spiritual leader but also as a business mogul and philanthropist, effortlessly bridging the realms of faith and commerce. He was celebrated for advancing Islamic culture and fostering connections between Muslim communities and the Western world.
The Aga Khan Development Network primarily focuses on vital issues such as healthcare, housing, education, and economic development in rural areas. It operates in more than 30 countries and maintains an annual budget close to $1 billion for various nonprofit development initiatives.
Ismailis have a rich history that spans generations, with roots in regions including Iran, Syria, and South Asia before expanding into East Africa, Central Asia, the Middle East, as well as Europe, North America, and Australia in more recent years. The community is committed to a tradition of contributing up to 12.5% of their income to the Aga Khan, who serves as their steward.
