King Charles has officially conferred the title of ‘His Highness’ on Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V, recognizing his accession as the fiftieth hereditary Imam of the Shi’a Ismaili Muslim community. This royal recognition continues a long-standing tradition of British monarchs granting this title to Ismaili Imams, acknowledging their spiritual leadership and global influence.
The title of ‘His Highness’ was first bestowed upon Aga Khan I in honor of his religious leadership and contributions to the global Ismaili Muslim community.
Since then, this honor has been reaffirmed with each new Imam, underscoring the historic bond between the British Crown and the Ismaili Imamat.
Historical records reveal that Queen Victoria granted the title to Aga Khan III in 1886 when he was just nine years old, shortly after he became Imam.
Queen Elizabeth II continued this practice in 1957 by conferring the title on Aga Khan IV upon his succession. Now, King Charles III has followed this tradition by granting the same honor to Aga Khan V.
The connection between the British monarchy and the Ismaili Imams goes beyond ceremonial, reflecting a rich history of collaboration and mutual respect.
The Ismaili Imams have long supported the Crown, particularly in India and Afghanistan, and their leadership continues to have a profound impact within the Commonwealth.
This title also acknowledges the Imam’s significant role in interfaith dialogue, education, healthcare, and socio-economic development, where the Ismaili community has made notable contributions worldwide.
The late Aga Khan IV, known for his diplomatic skill and international statesmanship, enjoyed a close personal relationship with both Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III.
His work was widely recognized by the UK Government, which hosted events for his Golden and Diamond Jubilees, and he was honored with a Knighthood.
Aga Khan IV also served as the Founding Patron of The King’s Trust, further strengthening the ties between the Ismaili Imamat and British institutions.
The Ismaili Imamat’s relationship with Britain is not only institutional but also personal. Aga Khan IV and his family, including Aga Khan V and his children, are British citizens. Prince Rahim Aga Khan’s mother and late paternal grandmother were also British, deepening these historic ties.
As Aga Khan V assumes his role as Imam, the granting of the title ‘His Highness’ by King Charles III not only upholds a longstanding tradition but also reaffirms the shared values and enduring bond between the Ismaili Imamat, the British Crown, and the wider Commonwealth.
