Shah Karim Al-Hussayni, the Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Nizari Ismaili Muslims, passed away in 2024 at 88 years of age. Born on 13 December 1936, in Geneva, Switzerland, to Prince Aly Khan and Princess Tajuddawlah, he was educated at Le Rosey and Harvard University, where he excelled in history. In 1957, at age 20, he succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III, to lead the Ismaili community into a new era. His ascension over his father and uncle symbolised a forward-looking vision for a globalized world.

For over six decades, the Aga Khan led an estimated 10–15 million Ismailis across 25 countries, guiding them with a message of pluralism, compassion, and intellectual engagement. Through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), comprising over 200 institutions, he transformed lives in 30 countries, prioritising education, healthcare, cultural preservation, and economic empowerment. Iconic projects include the Aga Khan University, revolutionising medical education in Pakistan, and the restoration of Cairo’s Al-Azhar Park and Aleppo’s Old City, blending heritage with community upliftment. His initiatives empowered millions, particularly in marginalised regions of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, earning him accolades like Pakistan’s Nishan-e-Imtiaz and Canada’s Order of Merit.

A bridge between faith and modernity, the Aga Khan championed interfaith dialogue and gender equality, ensuring Ismaili institutions reflected inclusivity. His Diamond Jubilee (2017–2018) celebrated 60 years of leadership, marked by global initiatives to alleviate poverty and foster peace. A passionate skier and horse breeder, he balanced tradition with progress, leaving a legacy of human dignity and global unity. He is survived by his children, including Prince Rahim, who carries forward his vision.