WEB DESK: The 50th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims, Prince Rahim Aga Khan, marked his 54th birthday on Sunday in a remarkable way, by completing the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. The Ismaili Imam joined more than 50,000 runners from over 100 countries in the 26.2-mile (42.2 km) race, finishing in under five hours and earning admiration from the global Ismaili community and marathon spectators alike.
This was Prince Rahim’s first Salgirah (birthday as Imam) since assuming leadership of the Ismaili Muslim community in February 2025, following the passing of his father, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. His participation in one of the world’s most prestigious running events reflected not only a personal milestone but also his continuing emphasis on the values of health, discipline, and perseverance.
Videos shared on social media showed members of the Ismaili community cheering him along the marathon route. In one widely circulated clip, Prince Rahim was seen smiling, turning back to acknowledge his well-wishers, and replying with a warm “Thank you.”
Global Ismaili Muslims pledge allegiance to Prince Rahim Aga Khan during Takht-Nishini
The official Ismaili website highlighted his appreciation for community members who also took part in the marathon, conveying his congratulations and gratitude for their support. His participation, the statement noted, exemplified his belief in physical fitness as a form of spiritual and mental balance — a message he has repeatedly shared in his public addresses.
In a recent sermon delivered in Nairobi in August, the Imam encouraged his followers to adopt active lifestyles: “Make some time to move every day and play sports when you can. Whatever your age, and however busy you are, everyone can make an effort to move more. This will be good for your physical and your mental health.”
Prince Rahim, who also completed the Berlin Marathon in 2024, has long advocated holistic well-being and the pursuit of excellence, values central to the ethos of the Ismaili community. His predecessors, including Prince Karim Aga Khan IV and Imam Sultan Mahomed Shah, were also noted sportsmen who supported athletic and cultural initiatives during their lifetimes.
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The Chicago Marathon, one of the six World Marathon Majors, has grown into a global symbol of endurance and philanthropy, raising millions for charitable causes annually. Prince Rahim’s participation this year added a deeply personal and inspirational dimension to the event, as he combined leadership with example, celebrating his birthday not with ceremony, but with movement, community, and purpose.