The Shia Ismaili community in Thatta, Sujawal, and surrounding areas is celebrating the 88th birthday of their spiritual leader, Prince Karim Aga Khan, with great enthusiasm. The festivities, featuring a series of events and illuminations, reflect the community's deep devotion to their beloved Imam. Residential areas, community centres, and institutional offices are brightly decorated with lights, creating a joyful and vibrant atmosphere across the region.
Ghulam Ali Chagla, an 80-year-old member of the Ismaili community, fondly recalls the visit of Prince Karim Aga Khan to Sujawal in 1964. “I was a young man when our spiritual leader visited Sujawal," he says. "Many of my fellow community members from different parts of district Thatta gathered to catch a glimpse of him.”
Prince Karim Aga Khan’s commitment to humanitarian service is widely acknowledged. He has dedicated his life to improving conditions for people in underdeveloped countries through a network of institutions. His followers, inspired by his example, contribute through voluntary services, embodying values of compassion and empathy.
The Aga Khan family has long been a pioneer in promoting girls' education, volunteerism, and social services on a global scale. Aslam Parvez, a former community leader, highlights how several heads of state now follow in Prince Karim Aga Khan’s footsteps in their approach to governance. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture is also renowned for its work in preserving and refurbishing mosques and historic buildings associated with Muslim dynasties worldwide.
Prince Karim Aga Khan’s connection to Sindh and Pakistan is profound. Over the years, he has visited various parts of Sindh, including Tando Muhammad Khan, Sujawal, Hyderabad, and Sehwan, during the 1960s. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to humanity, the University of Sindh Jamshoro awarded him an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Law.
As the Shia Ismaili community celebrates their spiritual leader’s birthday, they reflect on his message of respecting diversity within Islam and remaining loyal to Pakistan. Historian Mashoque Ali recalls the words of Prince Karim Aga Khan, saying, “Respect diversity in Islam and remain loyal to Pakistan.” He also highlights the Aga Khan family’s historical ties to Jhirk, where their mansion represents a significant chapter in Sindh's history.
At a reception hosted in honour of Prince Karim Aga Khan during his visit in 2017, Sindh’s Chief Minister, Syed Murad Ali Shah, praised his efforts to promote peace and religious harmony. During the speech, CM Shah encouraged Prince Karim Aga Khan to make annual visits to Sindh. Additionally, he noted the contributions of Prince Karim’s grandfather, Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah, who played a crucial role in the development of the Muslim population in the Subcontinent, notably participating in the independence movement and supporting the transformation of Aligarh Muslim College into a university.
Celebrations Begin with Pipe Band Performance in Buhara and Ghulamullah Towns
The community commenced their day with a fascinating performance by a pipe band in Buhara and Ghulamullah towns in district Thatta. Following the performance, a procession was led by local community leaders. During this procession, community leaders expressed their gratitude to Prince Karim Aga Khan for his remarkable contributions to the Muslim population worldwide.
The celebrations serve as a powerful reminder of the community's deep admiration for their spiritual leader. As they mark this special occasion, they renew their allegiance to Prince Karim Aga Khan and reaffirm their commitment to his values of compassion, empathy, and service to humanity.