The King hosted a distinguished dinner at Windsor Castle to commemorate the first anniversary of the Aga Khan’s accession. This event took place on Wednesday, marking a significant moment for the Ismaili Muslim community.
Celebrating Heritage at Windsor Castle
King Charles welcomed Rahim Al-Hussaini, known as the Aga Khan V, to the royal residence in Berkshire. This gathering included members of the Aga Khan’s family, reflecting their close ties.
A Historical Meeting
The Aga Khan V ascended to the title on February 4, 2025, following the death of his father, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, the Aga Khan IV. Shortly after his accession, the King conferred the title “His Highness” upon him, maintaining royal tradition.
- Event: Black tie dinner at Windsor Castle
- Date: Wednesday evening
- Aga Khan V Title Granted: February 4, 2025
Significance of the Event
This dinner not only highlighted the longstanding friendship between the royal family and the Aga Khan but also demonstrated the deep cultural connections between them. The Aga Khan is viewed by his followers as a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and treated with the utmost respect akin to a head of state.
Tradition and Attire
During the dinner, King Charles donned the Windsor Uniform, which features a distinctive dinner jacket with scarlet collar and cuffs. This attire has been a tradition since 1779 and is typically worn at formal events within the castle.
Historical Connections
The late Aga Khan IV was known for his philanthropy and shared a remarkable bond with both King Charles and the late Queen Elizabeth II. Their mutual interest in horse racing included watching events at Royal Ascot and a historical connection to the Derby-winning racehorse, Shergar, who disappeared in 1983.
This anniversary dinner at Windsor Castle signifies not just the leadership of the Aga Khan V but also a celebration of heritage and mutual respect between two influential figures in their respective realms.
