In Memoriam

His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, founding Patron of the Aga Khan Museum and 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, passed away peacefully in Lisbon on February 4, 2025, aged 88, surrounded by his family. Prince Karim Aga Khan was the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network.

A visionary leader, His Highness dedicated his life to improving the lives of others, advancing pluralism, and preserving cultural heritage. As Founder and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), his work spanned education, healthcare, and humanitarian efforts.

His commitment to the arts, particularly in preserving the heritage of Muslim civilizations, led to the creation of the Aga Khan Museum, which stands as a lasting symbol of his belief in the power of the arts to bridge divides and foster understanding across communities. The Museum showcases the rich and diverse heritage of Muslim civilizations, offering a window into the artistic, intellectual, and spiritual contributions that have shaped cultures for over 1,400 years.

At the Museum’s opening ceremony, His Highness shared his vision:

“If I were looking for a single word to sum up my intention and hope for the Aga Khan Museum, it would be the word ‘enlightenment.’ It is a word which has both cultural and spiritual significance. The history of the thought and the creations of man can perhaps be said to be a long path from one period of enlightenment to another. I would hope that this museum will contribute to a new period of enlightenment — helping visitors from around the world to rediscover the common symbols that unite us all across the globe, across all civilizations, across time.”

His Highness envisioned the Museum as a platform for bridging cultural gaps and addressing the misunderstandings that fuel divisions in the modern world. Using the arts as catalyst and conversation starter, the Museum is a space for connection, fostering dialogue and a deeper appreciation of diverse traditions. Through the Museum and his many other initiatives, His Highness left an indelible mark on the global landscape, enriching lives and promoting a more harmonious and understanding world.