For stories about Hazrat Ali, Prince Sinan Aga Khan and the Aga Khan’s forthcoming visit to the U.K., please click HERE

On New Year’s Day, January 1, which coincided with 13th Rajab in the Muslim lunar calendar, Ismailis worldwide gathered in Jamatkhanas to honour the birth anniversary of Hazrat Ali (Peace be upon him). This annual celebration reinforces their deep connection to the first Imam and the Hereditary Institution of Imamat, a core part of the Shia Ismaili Muslim faith, helping the community feel spiritually rooted. The occasion also featured a Talika, a holy written message, from Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, the 50th Imam in direct succession to Mawlana Ali, announcing his upcoming visits to the UK and Germany in February. In his Talika, Mawlana Hazar Imam also conveyed his blessings that 2026 would bring happiness, peace and good health to the Jamat. On January 2, his younger son, Prince Sinan Aga Khan, turned nine.

Please read these stories on our sister website Barakah, which is dedicated to His Highness the Aga Khan, members of his family and the Ismaili Imamat.

Date posted: January 2, 2026.

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