Ismailism in Independent Tajikistan: Revival and Reform

Abstract

The article discusses the specificity of the religious revival process among the smaller peoples of Western Pamir (Rushantsy, Shugnantsy, Bartangtsy, Ishkashimtsy, Vahantsy) populating the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Province of Tajikistan. These peoples practice Ismailism, one of the Shia currents which grew into an independent religious branch in the framework of Islam. The aim of the article is an analysis of changes that have occurred within Pamir’s Ismailism since the 1980s, as well as discussion of religious reforms and examination of the part that the Aga Khan Foundation plays in the contemporary life of the Pamir society.