Source : INDIATV NEWS
Pope Francis dies: Pope Francis died on Monday at the age of 88 on Easter Monday. He had celebrated Easter a day ago and given his customary Easter address in the Vatican Square.
India has announced a three-day state mourning to honor the passing of Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday. The first Latin American pontiff who charmed the world with his humble style and concern for the poor, passed away at the age of 88.
India to observe three-day state mourning
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has announced a three-day State Mourning in India to pay respects to the late Pope Francis. “Two days’ State Mourning on Tuesday, the 22nd April, 2025 and Wednesday, the 23rd April, 2025. One day’s State Mourning on the day of the funeral,” the MHA said in a statement.
The mourning will be observed as follows:
- National Flag will be flown at half-mast across India
- No official entertainment during the mourning period
- State Mourning will be observed on April 22-23, and on the day of the funeral
PM Modi expresses grief
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, calling it a profound loss for the global community. Sharing his heartfelt message, the Prime Minister conveyed his condolences to Catholics across the world, acknowledging the Pope’s lifelong dedication to service, compassion, and spiritual courage. In a statement of tribute, PM Modi highlighted how Pope Francis, from an early age, committed himself to the teachings and ideals of Lord Christ. PM Modi emphasised that for those grappling with suffering, Pope Francis became a symbol of hope and resilience.
“I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-around development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace,” PM Modi added. Notably, Pope Francis died at the age of 88 at his Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta residence on Easter Monday.
Pope Francis’ death was a cerebral stroke
According to the news agency AP, Pope Francis, history’s first Latin American pontiff, died of a cerebral stroke that put him into a coma and led to irreversible heart failure.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell said from the chapel of the Domus Santa Marta, where Francis lived.
Francis, who suffered from chronic lung disease and had part of one lung removed as a young man, was admitted to Gemelli hospital on February 14, 2025, for a respiratory crisis that developed into double pneumonia. He spent 38 days there, the longest hospitalisation of his 12-year papacy.
He made his last public appearance on Easter Sunday — a day before his death — to bless thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square, drawing wild cheers and applause. Beforehand, he met US Vice President JD Vance.
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Also Read: Pope Francis dies at Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta residence on Easter Monday after prolonged illness
