Niyazars

Niyazars, also known as Nizari Ismailis, are a branch of the Shia Islam sect known as Ismailism. They trace their lineage to Ismail ibn Jafar al-Sadiq, the seventh Shia Imam, and are historically associated with the Fatimid Caliphate, which ruled parts of North Africa and the Middle East from the 10th to the 12th centuries. The Niyazari Ismailis are distinguished by their belief in a hidden Imam, known as the Aga Khan, who serves as their spiritual and temporal leader.

The Niyazari Ismailis are particularly known for their association with the legendary fortress of Alamut in Persia, which served as the stronghold of the Nizari Ismaili state during the 12th and 13th centuries. Under the leadership of Hassan-i Sabbah, the fortress became a center of political and religious power, though it is also infamous for its role in the Assassins, a group of elite assassins who operated under its banner. The Niyazari Ismailis were later suppressed by the Mongol Empire, leading to the decline of their political influence.

Today, the Niyazari Ismailis are primarily concentrated in South Asia, particularly in India, Pakistan, and the United Kingdom, where they form a significant part of the Ismaili community. Their spiritual leader, the Aga Khan, is considered the 49th Imam in a direct line of succession dating back to Ismail ibn Jafar al-Sadiq. The Niyazari Ismailis follow a moderate interpretation of Islam, emphasizing education, social welfare, and pluralism. They operate a network of educational institutions, including the Aga Khan University and the Aga Khan Development Network, which focus on healthcare, education, and economic development in underserved regions.

The Niyazari Ismailis maintain a distinct cultural and religious identity while engaging with broader Islamic and global communities. Their history reflects a blend of mysticism, political intrigue, and enduring resilience, shaping their unique place within the broader Islamic tradition.