From heritage conservation to social development: Aga Khan’s enduring legacy in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and founder of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), passed away on February 4, 2025, in Lisbon, Portugal, at the age of 88. He was surrounded by his family at the time of his death.
A direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through his daughter Hazrat Bibi Fatima and her husband Hazrat Ali, the first Shia Imam, Prince Karim Aga Khan was the eldest son of Prince Aly Khan and Joan Yarde-Buller. He succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III, as Imam.
Throughout his life, Aga Khan highlighted that Islam is a spiritual faith that promotes compassion, tolerance, and the dignity of all people. He dedicated his efforts to improving the living conditions of his community and others in some of the world’s most underdeveloped regions, regardless of race, religion, or ethnicity.
As the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network, he led one of the largest private international development organizations. His work has left a lasting impact on communities across South Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and beyond, in diverse fields such as education, health, rural development, and cultural preservation.
The 50th Imam has already been designated and will be announced following the reading of the Aga Khan’s will in the coming days. Information regarding funeral arrangements will be shared soon.
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed deep sorrow at the passing of Aga Khan, acknowledging his contributions to social service, particularly in the fields of education and community development. The Chief Minister noted the significant impact of Aga Khan’s foundation, especially in Telangana, where the Aga Khan Trust undertook the restoration of the Qutub Shahi Tombs and established the Aga Khan Academy in Shamshabad.
The Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri @revanth_anumula, has expressed profound sorrow at the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Al Hussaini, Aga Khan. He acknowledged the immense contributions made by Aga Khan, particularly in the realm of social service and the educational sector,… pic.twitter.com/paj7zfBEIa
— Telangana CMO (@TelanganaCMO) February 5, 2025
The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), which was established in 1967, continues to focus on poverty alleviation, healthcare, education, agriculture, and other critical areas in the poorest regions of South and Central Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. It coordinates its work across various agencies within the Aga Khan Development Network, including initiatives for climate resilience, civil society development, and gender equality.
The foundation’s global presence spans 17 countries, with active programs in 14, and is supported by various international partners, including the United Nations, Global Affairs Canada, and USAID.
