The Aga Khan IV, Wealthy Leader of the Ismaili Muslims, Dies at 88
New York TimesJAN 23
Aga Khan IV Passes Away at 88
Above: Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini, Aga Khan IV attends an event at the Aga Khan Centre on Oct. 2, 2019 in London, England. Image copyright: Contributor/Max Mumby/Indigo via Getty Images Entertainment
The Spin
Narrative A
The world has lost a visionary leader whose influence stretched far beyond his spiritual role. Thrust into leadership at just 20, Aga Khan IV transformed his position into a force for global development, blending faith with pragmatic action. Through his philanthropy, he uplifted millions — investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure in some of the world’s most fragile regions. His commitment to pluralism and progress leaves an enduring legacy of compassion and change.
Narrative B
Aga Khan IV straddled the worlds of faith, business, and high society with remarkable ease. While hailed for his philanthropy, his extravagant lifestyle often personified a contradiction between his spiritual leadership and material excess. His financial empire, fueled by contributions from followers, blended altruism with calculated investment, blurring the line between genuine benevolence and strategic self-interest. In the end, his mercurial celebrity was dazzling but also paradoxical.