King Charles III has hosted a distinguished black tie dinner at Windsor Castle to commemorate the first anniversary of the Aga Khan's accession as the spiritual leader of the world's Ismaili Muslims. The event, held on Wednesday evening at the Berkshire royal residence, brought together the monarch and the 50th hereditary Imam in a poignant celebration of their longstanding relationship.
A Royal Welcome for a Spiritual Leader
The King personally welcomed His Highness the Aga Khan to Windsor Castle for this significant private dinner. The two leaders were photographed together in the castle's Grand Corridor, with King Charles wearing his distinctive Windsor Coat dinner jacket featuring scarlet collar and cuffs. This traditional uniform, dating back to 1779 when first introduced by George III, is worn by male members of the royal family at formal castle events where evening dress is required.
Marking a Year of Spiritual Leadership
Rahim Al-Hussaini was named as the Aga Khan V on February 4, 2025 following the death of his father, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, who served as the Aga Khan IV. Soon after his accession, King Charles granted the new spiritual leader the title "His Highness," continuing a royal tradition that spans generations. The anniversary dinner was attended by members of the Aga Khan's family, making the occasion particularly meaningful.
The Aga Khan, considered by his followers to be a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, is treated as a head of state in diplomatic circles. This Windsor Castle gathering represents the latest chapter in a relationship that has seen previous meetings, including the King's reception of the-then Prince Rahim at Buckingham Palace in July 2023 in his capacity as a member of the Aga Khan Development Network and Aga Khan Foundation.
A Legacy of Friendship and Philanthropy
The late Aga Khan IV, a billionaire philanthropist, maintained a close personal friendship with both King Charles and Queen Elizabeth II over many years. He shared a particular passion for horse racing with the late monarch, frequently attending Royal Ascot together. Notably, he owned Shergar, the legendary Derby-winning racehorse who was tragically kidnapped from his Irish stud farm in 1983 and never recovered.
This anniversary dinner at Windsor Castle not only marks an important milestone in the Aga Khan's spiritual leadership but also reinforces the enduring connection between the British monarchy and one of the world's most significant Muslim communities. The event demonstrates the King's continued commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and maintaining important international relationships through traditional royal hospitality.
