Nizari

Nizari refers to the followers of the Nizari branch of Ismaili Shia Islam. The name derives from Nizar, who asserted the imamate in opposition to a rival line during the late Fatimid period. Nizaris constitute one of the two principal streams within Ismailism, the other being the Musta'li. The Nizari claim of legitimate succession is traditionally tied to a living imam in the line that descends from Nizar.

Historically, the Nizari imamate developed a distinctive network in Persia (Iran) and surrounding regions. In the 11th century and afterward, leaders such as Hassan-i Sabbah established fortified communities and a clandestine political presence, with the fortress of Alamut becoming emblematic. The term “Assassins” is historically associated with this period and network. The Nizari state declined with the Mongol conquests in the 13th century, and the imamate entered long phases of dispersion and concealment, though a continuous line of Imams remained within the community.

In the modern era, the Nizari Ismailis are led by a living Imam; since 1957 the head has been the Aga Khan (Aga Khan IV). The community is global, with substantial charitable and development work conducted through the Aga Khan Development Network. Nizari Ismailis emphasize education, healthcare, cultural pluralism, and social welfare, while maintaining a distinct religious identity within Islam.

Belief and practice in the Nizari tradition center on the Imamate as the living, divinely guided leadership of the community, and on the interpretation of scripture through both esoteric and exoteric approaches. The term Nizari is also used to distinguish this group from other Ismaili branches, such as the Musta'li, Tayyibi, and Dawoodi Bohra.