In Pictures: His Highness Aga Khan’s First Visit to Hunza in 1960

Imran Ahmed Hunzai

October 23, 2019

On October 23, 1960, a historic occasion unfolded in the picturesque Hunza Valley. His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan, the 49th Imam of the Ismaili Muslims, made his inaugural visit to the region, laying the groundwork for what would become a model of development and progress.

Since that historic day, Hunza has undergone a remarkable transformation, serving as an inspiration for many indigenous communities globally. To commemorate this significant anniversary, Ismailis of the Hunza Valley celebrate “Salgirah” on October 23rd each year, honoring the profound impact of His Highness Aga Khan’s visit followed by the tremendous work of Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and its agencies including Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRPS), Aga Khan Education Services (AKES) and Aga Khan Health Services, among others.

For decades, the photographs captured during His Highness Aga Khan’s initial visit to Hunza remained largely unseen. However, in 2016, Simerg Photos, with the gracious permission of Abdul M. Ismaily’s family, released a collection of these invaluable images, offering a glimpse into this historic event.

Attached by pulley to the third cable was a wooden box, five feet square, with sides rising 18 inches. This was the only way to Hunza. The five journalists which included two Americans were horrified, and despite urging from Pir Ali Allana, the Aga Khan’s advance man, none would get into the box. Far across the river, men pulled on a rope, and, swaying and shaking, the box shot out over the swift-flowing stream of Hunza River. Today, the Nasirabad Bridge stands in this place.

Ismaili Volunteers with community leaders during the preparations to receive H.H. The Aga Khan at Baltit Polo Ground in Karimabad, Hunza.

Col. Ayash Khan, the brother of Mir Jamal Khan, the last royal ruler of Hunza, is seen standing in a uniform with members of the royal family of Hunza outside the royal palace in Hunza where His Highness the Aga Khan resided during his visit in 1960.

H.H. Aga Khan in conversation with Mir of Hunza.

In Pictures: His Highness Aga Khan’s First Visit to Hunza in 1960

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