New Delhi: Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, the 50th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili community, has arrived in New Delhi for his first visit to India since assuming the Imamat.
Indian officials and Ismaili community leaders welcomed Prince Rahim upon his arrival on September 9. The visit will continue until September 15 at the invitation of Indian Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan.
The Aga Khan also serves as Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). The Indian Ministry of External Affairs said his visit will provide an opportunity to review cooperation in social development, heritage preservation and community initiatives.
Meetings With India’s Top Leaders
During his stay in New Delhi, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V is scheduled to meet several senior Indian leaders.
His programme includes talks with Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan. He is also scheduled to call on President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In addition, the Aga Khan will meet Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar. These meetings are expected to cover areas of mutual interest and cooperation linked to development and community work.
Visit to Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Hyderabad
Prince Rahim Aga Khan V will also travel beyond the Indian capital.
His itinerary includes Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Hyderabad. The Aga Khan Development Network has been involved in development and community initiatives in these cities and other parts of India.
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The visit will also give the Aga Khan an opportunity to meet members of the Ismaili community and engage with local community activities.
Historic Links With India
The visit carries particular importance for the Ismaili community because it marks Prince Rahim Aga Khan V’s first India visit since he became the 50th Imam.
He succeeded his late father, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, in February 2025. He now leads the global Ismaili community as its hereditary Imam.
The Aga Khan family and its institutions have maintained long-standing links with India. The Aga Khan Development Network has also worked in areas including education, health, economic development, culture and heritage preservation.
Ismaili Community Prepares for Visit
Members of the Ismaili community in India have made extensive preparations for the visit.
Community volunteers are supporting arrangements at different locations. They are also helping with transport, registration and other logistical needs.
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The arrival has generated strong interest among Ismaili communities across India. Community members are expected to participate in various programmes during the seven-day visit.
