The Aga Khan's Packard Eight Limousine

The Aga Khan’s Packard Eight Limousine (circa 1928).

 

Owning a Packard automobile maybe have been the height of style and elegance in the United States, but they were also popular across the world. In Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, Packard’s quality craftsmanship was enjoyed by many. One prominent owner was Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah, also known as His Holiness the Aga Khan III, an honorary title given to the leader of the of the Nizari Ismaili Muslim Community. Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah lived from November 2, 1877 – July 11, 1957. At the young age of 8 he succeeded his father as the 48 Imam (leader of the Shi’a Ismai’li Muslims). At the age of twenty he was made a “Knight of the Indian Empire” by Queen Victoria of England. He was also made Knight Commander of the Order of the Indian Empire by Edward VII in 1902, and a Knight Grand Commander of the Order of the Star of India by George V in 1912. Some of his other accomplishments include being a founding member of the All-India Muslim league as well as their first president and serving as member and eventually becoming president of the League of Nations. In 1928 Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah the Aga Khan III visited the Aimila Automobile Company in Bombay, India. There he purchased a Packard Eight Limousine from Packard salesman H.C. Mitha. - Edras Rodriguez-Torres, Wayne State University Graduate Student

His Holiness the Aga Khan III Bombay, India (circa 1928).

 

From left to right: Y.C. Mitha, the Aga Khan III, H.C. Mitha, and A. Rahimtulla