Aga Khan Biography – Prince Karim Al-Husseini, better known as Aga Khan IV, was a prominent religious leader, philanthropist, businessman, and member of the world’s most affluent royal families. He served as the 49th Imam of the Nizari Ismaili Muslim community for over six decades, playing a pivotal role in the development of his community and humanitarian efforts globally.
This biography explores the life, accomplishments, family, and legacy of Aga Khan IV, including details about his religion, children, net worth, and the cause of his death.
Aga Khan Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Prince Karim Al-Husseini (Aga Khan IV) |
| Born | December 13, 1936, Geneva, Switzerland |
| Religion | Nizari Ismaili Islam |
| Position | 49th Imam of the Nizari Ismaili Muslims |
| Net Worth | $5.4 Billion |
| Cause of Death | Not Disclosed |
| Son | Rahim Aga Khan, Hussain Aga Khan, Aly Muhammad Aga Khan |
| Daughter | Zahra Aga Khan |
| Father | Prince Aly Khan |
| Mother | Princess Taj-ud-dawlah Aga Khan |
| Spouse | (Multiple wives, details not disclosed) |
Who Was Aga Khan IV?
Prince Karim Al-Husseini, known as Aga Khan IV, was born on December 13, 1936, in Geneva, Switzerland. He became the 49th Imam of the Nizari Ismaili Muslim community at the age of 20, following the death of his grandfather, Aga Khan III. Over the course of his leadership, he gained worldwide recognition not only for his religious duties but also for his significant contributions to the fields of development, education, and humanitarianism.
Early Life and Education
Aga Khan IV was born to Prince Aly Khan and Princess Taj-ud-dawlah Aga Khan. His childhood was spent in Nairobi, Kenya, before he attended the prestigious Institut Le Rosey in Switzerland. He later pursued higher education at Harvard University, where he majored in Islamic history and graduated with honors in 1959. Though he had ambitions of studying science at MIT, his grandfather encouraged him to pursue a different path in history, marking the beginning of his responsibilities as Imam.
Aga Khan IV’s Religion
As the 49th Imam, Aga Khan IV was a significant spiritual leader to millions of Ismaili Muslims around the world. His leadership was marked by a strong emphasis on improving education, health, and economic conditions for his community. His work in fostering global development initiatives, especially through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), helped bring educational opportunities and improve quality of life in many countries.
Personal Life: Family and Children
Aga Khan IV’s personal life was marked by his numerous marriages. He had three sons—Rahim Aga Khan, Hussain Aga Khan, and Aly Muhammad Aga Khan—as well as a daughter, Zahra Aga Khan. While details about his family remain relatively private, his children have continued his legacy in various philanthropic and business ventures.
Aga Khan’s Role in Global Development
The Aga Khan’s leadership extended beyond religious matters. He was the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), a global organization focused on improving living conditions in some of the world’s most marginalized regions. The AKDN operates in several sectors, including education, healthcare, culture, and economic development. His influence extended into numerous countries, where he promoted peace, tolerance, and the empowerment of communities.
Business and Financial Ventures
Aga Khan IV’s wealth was derived from his investments in multiple industries, including real estate, hospitality, and agriculture. He was also a notable racehorse breeder and owner. His net worth was estimated at approximately $5.4 billion, placing him among the wealthiest royals in the world. His assets were managed through various business ventures, contributing to his ability to fund the expansive development network he founded.
Aga Khan Net Worth and Legacy
With a fortune valued at $5.4 billion, Aga Khan IV was known not only for his religious leadership but also for his profound impact on global philanthropy and development. His legacy lives on through the AKDN, which continues to influence millions worldwide. His contributions to civil society, education, and health are widely acknowledged.
Aga Khan Cause of Death
The cause of the Aga Khan IV’s death, which occurred on February 4, 2025, has not been publicly disclosed.
Conclusion
Aga Khan IV was a towering figure, whose contributions to his faith, his community, and the world at large are immeasurable. He served as a symbol of leadership, compassion, and humanitarian work. His legacy continues to inspire and influence various fields, from development to education and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who was Aga Khan IV?
Aga Khan IV, born Prince Karim Al-Husseini, was the 49th Imam of the Nizari Ismaili Muslim community. He was known for his philanthropic efforts and leadership in the Aga Khan Development Network.
2. What is Aga Khan’s net worth?
Aga Khan IV’s net worth was estimated at $5.4 billion, making him one of the wealthiest royals in the world.
3. What was the cause of Aga Khan IV’s death?
The cause of Aga Khan IV’s death has not been publicly disclosed.
4. Who are Aga Khan IV’s children?
Aga Khan IV had three sons: Rahim Aga Khan, Hussain Aga Khan, and Aly Muhammad Aga Khan. He also had a daughter, Zahra Aga Khan.
5. What role did Aga Khan IV play in global development?
Aga Khan IV founded the Aga Khan Development Network, which operates globally to improve education, healthcare, and economic development, especially in underdeveloped regions
