Aga Khan IV, the beloved spiritual leader of millions of Ismaili Muslims, has passed away at the age of 88. He died peacefully on February 4, 2025, in Lisbon, Portugal, with his family by his side. His death marks the end of a life filled with compassion, wisdom, and service to humanity.
A Leader at 20, Ready to Change the World
Born in 1936 in Geneva, Switzerland, Prince Karim al-Hussaini unexpectedly became Aga Khan IV when he was just 20 years old. His grandfather, Aga Khan III, chose him over his own son, believing a young, forward-thinking leader was needed to guide the Ismaili Muslim community in a rapidly changing world. With a Harvard education and a modern mindset, Aga Khan IV embraced the role, blending tradition with progress.
A Life Devoted to Helping Others
Throughout his leadership, Aga Khan IV wasn’t just a religious figure—he was a force for change. He created the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), one of the world’s largest private development organizations. The network poured over $1 billion each year into projects aimed at improving education, healthcare, and living conditions in poor communities, especially in Africa and Asia. His mission wasn’t just to offer short-term aid but to help people create better lives for themselves.
A Love Beyond Faith: His Passion for Horses
When he wasn’t working on global development or guiding his community, Aga Khan IV indulged in his love for horse racing. His horses were champions on the track, with Shergar winning the famous Epsom Derby in 1981 by a record margin. Sadly, Shergar’s story took a dark turn when the horse was kidnapped in 1983 and never found.
A Private Yet Meaningful Personal Life
Aga Khan IV married twice. His first wife, Sarah Croker Poole, married him in 1969, and they had three children before divorcing in 1995. He later married Gabriele Renate Thyssen in 1998, but the marriage ended in 2014. He leaves behind four children—Princess Zahra, Prince Rahim, Prince Hussain, and Prince Aly Muhammad.
What Comes Next?
Prince Rahim, his oldest son, is widely anticipated to take over as spiritual leader in his place. However, the reading of Aga Khan IV’s will will precede the formal announcement. Millions of people are currently grieving the death of a man who dedicated his life to creating a more compassionate and caring world. Because of the individuals he impacted and the enduring effects of his work, his legacy will endure.
