The Aga Khan V Formally Enthroned As The 50Th Hereditary Imam Of Ismaili Muslims

The global Ismaili Muslim community witnessed a historic and deeply significant moment today as Shah Rahim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan V, formally ascended to the office of Imamat as the 50th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims. The Takht-nishini (enthronement ceremony) took place at the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat in Lisbon, Portugal, signifying his formal assumption of responsibilities as the spiritual leader of the community.

For the first time in history, the ceremony was broadcast live exclusively to Ismaili Jamatkhanas and designated gathering spaces worldwide, allowing millions of Ismaili Muslims to collectively witness this historic transition. Across different time zones and continents, community members gathered in prayer halls, and designated centers, watching the proceedings in unison, reflecting on the solemnity of the moment.

The ceremony was attended by senior Ismaili leaders, including the Chairman of the Ismaili Leaders' International Forum (LIF) and Presidents of National Ismaili Councils from across the world, who formally pledged their allegiance on behalf of their respective communities. This act of allegiance reaffirmed the continuity of the centuries-old hereditary Imamat that traces its lineage to Hazrat Mawlana Ali (peace be upon him), the first Imam of the Shia tradition.

During the Takht-nishini, The Aga Khan V was presented with the traditional symbols of authority, including the Holy Qur'an, the Ismaili Constitution, a ceremonial sword, and an inkwell, representing the continuity of spiritual and institutional leadership. The ceremony was infused with devotional recitations from the Holy Qur'an, including the Ayat al-Nur (24:35), and performances of qasidas in Arabic, Persian, and Dari, along with South Asian munajats, symbolizing the rich cultural diversity of the Ismaili community.

In his first address as Imam, The Aga Khan V acknowledged the pledges of allegiance, expressed gratitude to his family and the community, and paid tribute to the extraordinary legacy of his late father, Aga Khan IV. He reaffirmed his commitment to the spiritual and material well-being of the Ismaili Muslims, emphasizing the values of peace, ethical leadership, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship. He called upon Ismailis to be engaged, responsible, and contributing members of their societies, highlighting climate change as one of the critical global challenges requiring collective action.

As a commemorative gift, a historic 16th-century manuscript, titled“Munajat Hazrat Ali Amir al-Mu'minin”, was presented to The Aga Khan V. The manuscript, a collection of prayers attributed to Hazrat Ali, features Persian translations and intricate gold embellishments with floral and animal motifs, reflecting the deep cultural and historical heritage of the Ismaili tradition.

The enthronement ceremony concluded with a strong sense of unity and commitment among Ismailis worldwide, as they reflected on the continuity of their leadership and the guidance of their new Imam. With The Aga Khan V now at the helm, the Ismaili community looks ahead with confidence, preparing to continue its mission of service, education, and humanitarian development under his direction.

Today's enthronement follows the passing of His Highness Shah Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, who passed away on February 4, 2025, at the age of 88. Serving for 67 years, he was one of the longest-reigning spiritual leaders in modern history, widely recognized for his humanitarian contributions, global development efforts, and commitment to pluralism.

Under his leadership, the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) became one of the largest private development organizations in the world, operating in over 30 countries and employing tens of thousands of people in education, healthcare, economic development, cultural preservation, and humanitarian aid.

Aga Khan IV played a pivotal role in the establishment of world-class institutions, including the Aga Khan University (AKU) and Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) in Karachi, Pakistan, which today stands as the leading medical institution in the country and the region. AKUH was the first hospital in Pakistan to receive Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation, a global benchmark for healthcare excellence. With a strong focus on training medical professionals, pioneering advanced healthcare services, and providing financial assistance to those in need, Aga Khan IV's vision significantly improved the healthcare landscape across South Asia and East Africa.

His commitment to cultural preservation led to the restoration of major historical sites, in many different parts of the world including Egypt, India, Afghanistan and Pakistan, ensuring that cultural heritage remained an integral part of modern development.

Following his passing, Aga Khan IV was honored with a solemn state-like funeral held at the Ismaili Centre Lisbon on February 8, 2025, attended by international dignitaries, his family, and senior community leaders. The funeral reflected his lifelong service to humanity, with tributes pouring in from world leaders recognizing his dedication to global development, religious harmony, and social progress.

According to his wishes, he was laid to rest in Aswan, Egypt, on February 9, in a private burial ceremony overlooking the Nile River, a location of deep spiritual and cultural significance for the late Imam.

As The Aga Khan V formally assumes leadership, he inherits not only the spiritual guidance of millions of Ismaili Muslims but also the responsibility of advancing the global development agenda, ensuring that the Imamat continues its long-standing mission of service to humanity.

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