Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini has been named the 50th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslim community following the passing of his father, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. The announcement was made on February 5, 2025, after the late Aga Khan's will was unsealed, as reported by the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
Aga Khan IV, known for his global development initiatives and immense wealth, passed away on February 4, 2025, at the age of 88, in Lisbon, where the Ismaili Imamat is based. His funeral is expected to take place soon, once arrangements are finalized.
The news of his passing was met with sorrow worldwide. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media, describing Aga Khan IV as a visionary devoted to health, education, rural development, and women’s empowerment. "Deeply saddened by the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. He was a visionary who dedicated his life to service and spirituality. His contributions will continue to inspire millions," PM Modi posted on X.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar echoed similar sentiments, offering heartfelt condolences, stating, "My deepest condolences on the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV." These messages highlight the impact of Aga Khan IV’s legacy, both as a leader within the Ismaili community and as a prominent global philanthropist.
Prince Rahim, born October 12, 1971, is the eldest son of Aga Khan IV and his first wife, Princess Salimah, who was formerly known as Sarah Croker Poole. The couple had three children and divorced in 1995. Rahim is also the father of two sons from his marriage to former American fashion model Kendra Spears, whom he married in 2013. The couple divorced in 2022.
Education played a significant role in Rahim’s life; he attended Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts before graduating from Brown University with a degree in comparative literature. Over the years, he has taken on leadership roles within the Aga Khan Development Network, where he chairs the Environment and Climate Committee, focusing on sustainable development and combating climate change.
The Ismaili Muslim community, which Rahim will now lead, encompasses approximately 15 million followers worldwide, residing primarily across Central Asia, the Middle East, South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, and North America. The title of Aga Khan, meaning "commanding chief" in Turkish and Persian, has been held by his family for generations, believed to be direct descendants of the Prophet Muhammad through his daughter Fatima and son-in-law Ali, considered the first Shia Imam.
The AKDN, founded by Aga Khan IV, employs over 80,000 people and operates more than 200 agencies across various sectors, including education and health. The organization is renowned for its extensive philanthropic work, which includes building schools and hospitals, creating job opportunities, and providing sustainable solutions to combat poverty.
The Aga Khan’s legacy also includes significant contributions to cultural and economic development worldwide. For example, his investments helped establish the Costa Smeralda, transforming it from undeveloped land to one of the premier tourist destinations. This entrepreneurial spirit reflects the dual focus of Aga Khan IV on philanthropy and private enterprise.
Culturally, the Aga Khan Foundation's initiatives have been pivotal, as they promote not just economic development, but also the preservation of heritage and the promotion of cultural dialogues among communities.
Prince Rahim’s ascendancy as Aga Khan V marks not only the continuation of familial leadership but also brings with it high expectations. Just as his father laid foundations for the AKDN’s diverse initiatives, Rahim is anticipated to uphold and expand these efforts during his tenure. This transition signifies an important moment for the Ismaili community, reaffirming their enduring commitment to their faith and social responsibility.
"His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, passed away peacefully... surrounded by his family," stated the Aga Khan Foundation, confirming the sad news. The next chapter will see Rahim Al-Hussaini carry the mantle of leadership, stepping onto the global stage during challenging times, as he inherits not just the title but the expectations of millions who look to him for guidance and inspiration.