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Introduction The world mourns the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, who died peacefully on February 4, 2025, in Lisbon, Portugal, at the age of 88. As the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, Aga Khan IV dedicated his life to the spiritual leadership of his community and to extensive philanthropic endeavors that have left an indelible mark globally. Early Life and Ascension Born on December 13, 1936, in Geneva, Switzerland, Prince Karim was the eldest son of Prince Aly Khan and Princess Tajuddawlah. He spent his early years in Nairobi, Kenya, before pursuing higher education at Harvard University, where he graduated with a degree in Islamic history. In 1957, at the age of 20, he succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III, as the Imam of the Ismaili community, a transition that emphasized the need for youthful leadership in a rapidly changing world. Philanthropy and Development Initiatives Aga Khan IV was renowned for his co...