Vatican City – President Droupadi Murmu, accompanied by senior Indian ministers, visited Saint Peter’s Basilica on Friday to pay homage to His Holiness Pope Francis, who passed away on 21 April at the age of 88. The President’s visit, extending over two days from 25–26 April, honours the memory of the late Pontiff and conveys condolences on behalf of the Government and people of India.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared details of the visit via X, stating, “President Droupadi Murmu @rashtrapatibhvn paid homage to His Holiness Pope Francis at the Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. President Murmu was accompanied by Minister @KirenRijiju and MoS @GeorgekurianBjp to pay respects.”

President Murmu’s delegation included Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju and Minister of State for Minority Affairs, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying George Kurian. The visit reflects India’s respect for Pope Francis as a global spiritual leader who inspired millions with his compassion and humility.

Legacy of Pope Francis

Pope Francis, the first Latin American Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, ascended to the papacy on 13 March 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI. Renowned for his simplicity and unwavering commitment to social justice, the late Pope devoted his life to serving the marginalised and uplifting the downtrodden.

A Vatican statement confirmed his passing at Casa Santa Marta, his residence in the Vatican. Remembered as a beacon of compassion and spiritual courage, Pope Francis’s death has left a void in the global Catholic community.

The funeral Mass, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, will take place at Saint Peter’s Square on 26 April. Dignitaries from across the globe are expected to attend. Following the service, Pope Francis’s body will be transferred to St Mary Major for burial.

India Observes Mourning

The Government of India has declared state mourning on 26 April to coincide with the funeral of Pope Francis. The Ministry of Home Affairs announced that the national flag would be flown at half-mast throughout the country, with all official entertainment suspended.

India earlier observed two days of mourning on 22 and 23 April as a mark of respect. On 22 April, Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh visited the Apostolic Nunciature in New Delhi, the Embassy of the Holy See, to sign the condolence book.

Prime Minister Modi’s Tribute

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended heartfelt condolences on Pope Francis’s passing, highlighting the Pontiff’s deep affection for the people of India and his commitment to inclusivity and service.

In a post shared on X, Prime Minister Modi 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. From a young age, he devoted himself to realising Lord Christ’s ideals. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope.”

The Prime Minister further expressed fond memories of his meetings with Pope Francis, adding, “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.”

A Nation in Grief

As the world bids farewell to Pope Francis, India joins millions in mourning the loss of a leader who exemplified grace, humility, and unwavering dedication to humanity. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of compassion and faith will endure for generations to come.

President Murmu’s presence at the Vatican underscores the deep respect India holds for the late Pontiff, celebrating his life and contributions to peace and inclusion on the global stage.