Billionaire and Spiritual Leader Aga Khan Passes Away, Reports BBC
The BBC reports that the Aga Khan, a billionaire philanthropist and spiritual leader, has died at the age of 88. He was the 49th hereditary imam of the Ismaili Muslims, a Shia Muslim sect with about 15 million followers worldwide. His charity, the Aga Khan Development Network, announced that he “passed away peacefully” in Lisbon, Portugal, surrounded by his family.
Born in Switzerland, the Aga Khan held British citizenship and lived in a grand chateau in France. He was a close friend of King Charles and the late Queen Elizabeth II. The King is said to be deeply saddened by his death and has privately reached out to the family.
The Aga Khan was known for his lavish lifestyle, owning a private island, a super-yacht, and a private jet. But he also dedicated his life to helping others. His charities ran hundreds of hospitals, schools, and cultural projects, mostly in developing countries. The BBC highlights that his work improved the lives of millions, regardless of their religion or background.
The Aga Khan became the leader of the Ismaili Muslims in 1957 at just 20 years old. He inherited great wealth, which grew through his business ventures, including horse breeding. He was a successful racehorse owner, breeding Shergar, one of the most famous racehorses in history. Shergar won the Epsom Derby in 1981 but was tragically kidnapped in 1983 and never found. Despite this loss, the Aga Khan continued his passion for horse racing, winning the Derby four more times.
The BBC notes that the Aga Khan’s legacy includes founding the Aga Khan Foundation, supporting education and healthcare, and restoring historic sites like Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi. He also created the Nation Media Group, the largest independent media organization in East and Central Africa.
World leaders, including Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, praised the Aga Khan for his vision, generosity, and efforts to promote peace and equality. Nobel Prize winner Malala Yousafzai said his legacy will live on through his global work in education and development.
The Aga Khan’s successor, one of his male descendants, will be announced soon. His passing marks the end of an era, but his impact on the world will continue through the many lives he touched and the institutions he built.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9vmlk4rzzjo