In a solemn mark of respect, the Government of India on Monday declared a three-day state mourning following the passing of Pope Francis, the globally revered head of the Roman Catholic Church. The Vatican confirmed that the Pope, aged 88, succumbed to complications arising from double pneumonia.
The Ministry of Home Affairs issued an official statement confirming the mourning period. “His Holiness Pope Francis, Supreme Pontiff of the Holy See, passed away on April 21. As a mark of respect, three-day state mourning shall be observed throughout India,” the statement read.
The observance will take place on April 22 and April 23, with the third day to be marked on the day of the pontiff’s funeral, the exact date of which is expected to be announced shortly by the Vatican.
National Flag at Half-Mast, No Official Celebrations
During the state mourning, the Indian national flag will fly at half-mast on all government buildings where it is customarily displayed, and all forms of official entertainment will be suspended across the country, as per the Ministry’s guidelines.
The announcement underlines the profound global stature Pope Francis held, not only as a spiritual leader but as a humanitarian voice in modern geopolitics.
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Pope Francis’ Death: A Global Outpouring of Grief
The Vatican announced the Pope’s passing through a video statement, confirming that his long health struggles, including multiple ailments over his 12-year papacy, ultimately culminated in complications from double pneumonia. The pontiff’s death came just a day after Easter Sunday celebrations, during which he had delivered an address advocating freedom of thought, religious tolerance, and world peace.
In his last public remarks, the Pope said: “There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression, and respect for the views of others.”
The speech also contained a strong condemnation of anti-Semitism and drew attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling the situation “dramatic and deplorable.”
PM Modi Pays Tribute to Pope Francis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in mourning, expressing deep sorrow and recalling his personal meetings with the Pope. Posting a heartfelt message on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister wrote: “Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world.”
Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the… pic.twitter.com/QKod5yTXrB
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 21, 2025
PM Modi also shared photographs of his meetings with the pontiff, fondly reflecting on the Pope’s unwavering dedication to the poor, the downtrodden, and the marginalized.
“From a young age, he devoted himself towards realising the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope. I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace,” the Prime Minister added.
Pope Francis: A Global Symbol of Compassion and Humility
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, made history as the first Latin American Pope and served as the spiritual leader of 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide. Known for his humble demeanor and progressive views on global issues including climate change, interfaith dialogue, and social justice, the pontiff remained a transformative figure throughout his tenure.
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The news of his death has prompted an unprecedented wave of condolences from global leaders, faith communities, and human rights organizations.
As the world prepares to bid farewell to one of the most beloved religious figures of the 21st century, India stands in solidarity with the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a shepherd of peace and voice for the voiceless.
