H.H. The Aga Khan - Vanity Fair Nov. 1997

Photographed by Helmut Newton in Chantilly, France on August 9, 1997

Born, Geneva, Switzerland, the elder son of Prince Aly Khan. Educated at Le Rosey; B.A, Harvard, 1959, Divorced; three children.

The title of Aga Khan("great chief") is held by the spiritural leader, or Imam, of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. The Aga Khan, 60, assumed the title after his grandfather's death, while a student at Harvard.

A direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, as Imam the Aga Khan is responsible for both the spirtual and material well-being of a diaspora of 15 million Shia Ismaili Muslims in 25 countries.

He is a horse breeder, newspaper proprietor, yachtsman, developer, financier, and philanthropist of almost unparalleled scope.

His followers traditionally contribute a portion of their incomes to the treasury. The money is invested and allocated to health, education, and cultural projects worldwide. His Imamate is regarded as perhaps the most successful ever.

As a devout Muslim, he neither drinks nor smokes.


Back to 1997 Timeline
Back to Heritage Main page