Aga Khan, Philanthropist and Spiritual Leader, Passes Away at 88

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Aga Khan, the billionaire philanthropist and spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims, has died at age 88, as confirmed by his charity, the Aga Khan Development Network. According to a statement shared on social media, Prince Karim Aga Khan "passed away peacefully" in Lisbon, Portugal, amidst family.

Born in Switzerland, he held British citizenship and resided in France. The Aga Khan served as the 49th hereditary imam of the Ismaili Muslims, a sect that boasts a global population of approximately 15 million members. King Charles III, reportedly a personal friend of the Aga Khan's and deeply saddened by his death, has offered private condolences to his family.

Throughout his lifetime, the Aga Khan's charities have spearheaded numerous initiatives in healthcare, education, and culture, especially in developing nations. His estimated fortune of $1 billion in 2008 was amplified by various business ventures, including horse-breeding. He is particularly renowned for breeding the illustrious racehorse, Shergar.

The Aga Khan Development Network has expressed its condolences to his family and the Ismaili community worldwide, asserting a commitment to continuing his legacy of service across religious and cultural divides.

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