Culture generally encompasses the customs, traditions, language, literature,
arts, ethics, laws, and other social elements of a society. Experts believe that
culture is a complex amalgamation of knowledge, beliefs, arts, ethics, law, and
customs, which includes all the skills and habits that an individual acquires as
a member of a society. The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) launched the Aga
Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) in 1988, with the goal of promoting social,
cultural, and environmental sustainability.
The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) states that it promotes discussions and
debates about the importance of the built environment, cultural heritage, and
historical memories, offering solutions to contemporary issues. Engagement in
physical and social rehabilitation, music, and its education connect different
cultures through diverse forms of art.
AKTC emphasizes its efforts to foster greater awareness and understanding of the
diverse cultures of the Muslim world, while also working to develop various
forms of cultural expression. The Trust has used cultural transformation as a
means of improving the social and economic conditions of Muslim populations.
They have supported and assisted 40,000 musicians and music educators. At least
50 million people from different races, ethnicities, and cultures have visited
the parks and gardens created by AKTC.
In July 2024, during the completion ceremony of the Aga Khan QutbShahi Park,
Prince Rahim Aga Khan stated that under a grand project, not only was the tomb
of Mughal Emperor Humayun, its gardens, and 60 other historic buildings restored
(20 of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites), but a 90-acre Sundar
Nursery was also created. Public spaces were improved, schools and healthcare
centers were developed, educational and public health programs were implemented,
and public sanitation, water, and waste disposal systems were introduced.
Cultural revitalization was promoted through festivals, gatherings, and events.
On the occasion, Prince Rahim Aga Khan also mentioned that for the past two
decades, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture has had the honor of being part of this
magnificent project. Relevant corporate and philanthropic organizations,
international partners, other institutions of the Aga Khan Development Network,
and most importantly, the public, have all supported us. Together, we have
strived to present a model to the world that is the best example of thoughtfully
executed collective urban development. Museums and historic sites preserve the
story of human civilization and reveal it to us. They connect people and allow
us to look into our complex past while helping us shape a better, shared future.
Moreover, for the past 30 years, the Aga Khan Historic Cities Program has worked
on over 350 restoration and preservation projects across 10 countries, including
11 UNESCO World Heritage sites. The program has created 10 major parks and
gardens, visited by millions, proving that investment in culture can support
sustainable development even in the most challenging circumstances.
Additionally, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture’s Aga Khan Historic Cities Program
(AKHCP) works on projects across Pakistan, spanning from Lahore to the Silk Road
in the north of the country. The Trust has restored the historical significance
of major forts, traditional settlements, mosques, and public spaces in the high
valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan. Notable among these are the Baltit and Altit forts
in the Hunza Valley, and the Shigar Fort and Khaplu Palace in Baltistan.
Additionally, Lahore’s world cultural heritage and the 380-year-old Wazir Khan
Mosque are part of the historic sites where the Aga Khan Trust for Culture has
carried out restoration work.
In keeping with the tradition of promoting cultural heritage, the Aga Khan
Museum was constructed in 2014 in Toronto, Canada, showcasing Islamic art and
cultural artifacts.
Pluralism is the belief that the diverse and multicultural individuals of the
world should not only understand each other’s traditions and heritage but also
respect them. AKDN has built various cultural centers around the world,
encouraging intercultural dialogue and the understanding of different cultures
and traditions.
Such initiatives could be a good pathway to remove the skepticism of emerging
right wing population around the globe about Muslims and Islam. The OIC
Countries have also deliberated this aspect but could not implement as yet.
The Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, which houses Islamic art, promotes Muslim
culture through its extensive collection of nearly 1,200 rare and invaluable
artifacts. The collection was made possible by the generosity of prominent
figures, including business magnate Saddaruddin Hashwani, who contributed 10
million dollars, under the guidance of Prince Rahim Aga Khan. The museum is a
notable initiative by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture and an essential
institution within the Aga Khan Development Network, promoting understanding of
Muslim cultures and their relationship with other cultures through the arts.
The concept of building a large museum for Islamic art and artifacts had been in
the works for several years, aligning with the mission of the Ismaili community
to foster mutual cultural bonds and present Islamic civilizations in a new
light, particularly in the emerging culture of the world, where tolerance is
becoming a rare feeling. The final location in Toronto was confirmed in 2002,
and Prince Karim Aga Khan IV selected the site to celebrate pluralism. Thus, the
Aga Khan Museum opened its doors to the public on September 18, 2014.
Michael Brand served as the museum’s first director and CEO, followed by Henry
Kim, who held the position from 2012 to 2020. Prince Amyn Aga Khan was appointed
the new chairman of the board on May 18, 2016, taking over from Prince Karim Aga
Khan, who had maintained a close relationship with the museum for many years.
In every country, there are individuals who dedicate their lives to serving
others and inspire future generations. These global heroes leave behind a legacy
of hope, progress, and positive attitudes, and their services are appreciated at
every level of society. One such highly respected figure is Prince Rahim Aga
Khan, who has made significant contributions in education, healthcare, and
social service, promoting pluralism and harmony among people from diverse
backgrounds. Aga Khan V has always been a visionary leader with a passion for
helping others. His journey began by promoting education in remote and
underserved areas. The goal was to provide every child with quality education,
regardless of their socio-economic background. As mentioned earlier, these
schools have now become part of a large network of educational institutions,
serving thousands of students annually.
In addition to education, the Aga Khan Development Network has also been active
in improving the health system across the country. The organization has
established hospitals and clinics equipped with modern medical equipment to
provide affordable healthcare to the society. Their high-quality efforts in
healthcare have saved countless lives and positively impacted the overall health
sector of the country. His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan has been involved in
numerous charitable and social welfare projects, providing food, shelter, and
basic necessities to those in need. They have also played a significant role in
disaster relief, refugee aid, and poverty alleviation.
The distinguishing feature of His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan, however, is
his steadfast commitment to promoting pluralism and harmony among people from
diverse backgrounds. Aga Khan V firmly believes that diversity is the
cornerstone of a peaceful and prosperous society, and he has tirelessly worked
to bridge the gaps between different communities. His efforts have helped foster
understanding, respect, and acceptance of different cultures and traditions,
making every country where he has worked a more inclusive and tolerant example
for others to follow. Enhancing the scope of such work can contribute a great
deal to addressing issues like Islamophobia.