István Horthy, Jr., Hungarian physicist and architect

István Horthy de Nagybánya II, born on January 17, 1941, in Budapest, Hungary, is a distinguished figure renowned for his contributions across multiple disciplines. He is both a Hungarian physicist and an architect, a testament to his multidisciplinary intellect. Beyond his professional achievements, Horthy carries a significant historical lineage as the son of Hungarian Deputy Regent István Horthy and Ilona Edelsheim-Gyulai, and the grandson of Admiral Miklós Horthy, who served as the Regent of Hungary during a pivotal period from 1920 to 1944.

A Legacy of Leadership: The Horthy Family Connection

István Horthy II's family name is deeply interwoven with Hungarian history. His grandfather, Admiral Miklós Horthy, served as the Regent of Hungary for over two decades, from 1920 to 1944. As Regent, he acted as head of state in the absence of a monarch, navigating Hungary through the tumultuous interwar period and much of World War II. His father, also named István Horthy, held the crucial position of Deputy Regent, indicating his significant role in the nation's governance before his tragic death in 1942. This rich familial background provides crucial context to István Horthy II's personal history, linking him directly to a prominent era in Hungarian political life.

Spiritual Path and Contribution to Subud

In 1965, István Horthy II embarked on a significant personal journey by converting to Islam, adopting the name Sharif Horthy. This transformation marked a profound shift in his life, guiding his spiritual and philosophical outlook. He has since become a prominent and active member of Subud, a unique international spiritual association originating from Indonesia. Subud, founded by Muhammad Subuh Sumohadiwidjojo (often referred to as Bapak), is not a religion but a spiritual exercise or latihan kejiwaan, focused on experiencing a direct connection with the divine through spontaneous inner guidance. Sharif Horthy's dedication to Subud is further evidenced by his invaluable work in translating key texts by its founder, Subuh Sumohadiwidjojo, into English, making these profound teachings accessible to a global audience and contributing significantly to the dissemination of Subud's principles worldwide.

Distinguished Academic Background and Diverse Career

Sharif Horthy's academic journey laid a strong foundation for his multifaceted career. He graduated from the prestigious Oxford University in 1962 with a degree in Physics, demonstrating his early aptitude for complex analytical thought. Furthering his expertise, he pursued a second degree in Civil Engineering at the renowned Imperial College London, completing it in 1966. This unique blend of theoretical physics and practical engineering equipped him with a versatile skill set.

His professional career initially saw him working as a consulting engineer in England. Subsequently, he expanded his horizons to the Far East, specifically Indonesia, where he played a pivotal role in establishing and managing two significant companies. These enterprises specialized in a broad range of services, including consulting engineering, construction, and property development, contributing to the region's infrastructure and urban growth. Later, after spending several years based in Boston, United States, Horthy provided strategic consulting services to clients across Europe, the Pacific Rim, and the United States, advising them on intricate international business strategies. This phase of his career showcased his ability to navigate complex global markets and provide high-level strategic guidance. Following his extensive international engagements, Sharif Horthy ultimately settled back in England.

Personal Life and Current Residence

Sharif Horthy has been married twice. His first marriage was to Henrietta Josephine Chamberlain, with whom he has five children. He is currently married to Tuti, a Javanese woman. Together, they reside in Lewes, East Sussex, a historic and picturesque market town in England, known for its rich heritage and vibrant community.

Frequently Asked Questions about István Horthy de Nagybánya II (Sharif Horthy)

Who is István Horthy de Nagybánya II?
István Horthy de Nagybánya II, also known as Sharif Horthy, is a Hungarian physicist and architect. He is notable for his academic achievements, his conversion to Islam, and his prominent role within the Subud spiritual association. He also carries a significant family legacy as the grandson of Admiral Miklós Horthy, former Regent of Hungary.
What is his connection to Hungarian history?
He is the grandson of Admiral Miklós Horthy, who served as Regent of Hungary from 1920 to 1944, and the son of István Horthy, who was the Hungarian Deputy Regent. This lineage places him within a key period of Hungary's 20th-century political history.
When did István Horthy II convert to Islam?
He converted to Islam in 1965 and adopted the name Sharif Horthy.
What is Subud, and what is Sharif Horthy's role in it?
Subud is an international spiritual association originating from Indonesia, founded by Subuh Sumohadiwidjojo. It focuses on a spiritual exercise called latihan kejiwaan. Sharif Horthy is a prominent member and has significantly contributed by translating the founder's works into English, making them accessible globally.
What are his academic qualifications?
He holds a degree in Physics from Oxford University (1962) and a second degree in Civil Engineering from Imperial College (1966).
Where has he worked professionally?
His career spans consulting engineering in England, founding and managing two major companies in Indonesia (consulting engineering, construction, property development), and advising on international business strategies from Boston, USA, before settling in England.