Ismaili

Ismaili refers to adherents of Ismailism, a branch of Shia Islam that holds that the rightful Imam descends in a hereditary line from Ali and Fatima through Ismail ibn Ja'far. Ismailis emphasize that the Imam is a living, divinely guided leader whose authority covers both spiritual and communal matters. The movement emerged in the early centuries of Islam after a dispute over succession following Ja'far al-Sadiq, with those who accepted Ismail ibn Ja'far's status forming the Ismaili tradition.

Today Ismailism is divided mainly into two large groups: the Nizari and the Musta'li. The Nizari Ismailis recognize a living Imam and are led by the Imam's representative, the Aga Khan; the present Imam is Aga Khan IV. The Musta'li recognize a line of Da'is and are organized in sub-groups such as the Dawoodi Bohras and the Alavi Bohras, historically guided by a Dai al-Mutlaq, who oversees community affairs and spiritual leadership.

Historically, Ismailis established a significant presence within the Fatimid Caliphate in North Africa (969–1171), a period that helped shape their religious and cultural influence. In the 11th century, the Nizari tradition became notable for its network of fortified strongholds under Hasan-i Sabbah. The Ismaili tradition places emphasis on ta'wil, or esoteric interpretation of scripture, and on a living religious authority guided by the Imam. Modern Ismaili communities are worldwide, with substantial populations in South Asia, the Middle East, East Africa, and the diasporas of Europe and the Americas, engaging in education, charitable work, and community development.