India Pays Final Respects to Pope Francis: President Murmu Leads Delegation to Vatican
President Murmu Visits Vatican to Attend Pope Francis’s Funeral
India Declares National Mourning, President and Ministers Lead Delegation to Say Final Goodbye
India Joins the World in Mourning a Global Spiritual Leader
In a significant diplomatic and emotional gesture, President Droupadi Murmu has departed for Vatican City to attend the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. Accompanying her are Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State George Kurian, and Goa Deputy Speaker Joshua Peter De Souza.
The visit marks India’s deep respect for the Pope and his global legacy. Over the course of the two-day visit, the Indian delegation will participate in memorial services and offer condolences on behalf of the Indian government and its people.
Pope Francis: A Life Remembered
The Passing of a Global Icon
According to an official statement from the Vatican, Pope Francis passed away on April 21 at his residence, Casa Santa Marta, in the Vatican. He was 88 years old.
Pope Francis made history as the first Latin American pontiff to lead the Roman Catholic Church, beginning his papacy on March 13, 2013, after Pope Benedict XVI resigned.
Millions around the globe have expressed sorrow, remembering Pope Francis for his compassion, humility, and spiritual strength. His influence extended far beyond religious circles — promoting interfaith dialogue, environmental sustainability, and the rights of the poor.
India’s High-Level Delegation Flies to Rome
Who is in the Indian Delegation?
As shared by Kiren Rijiju in a post on X (formerly Twitter):
“Leaving for Rome (Vatican City) with Hon’ble President Smt Droupadi Murmu Ji to attend the State Funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis and offer condolences on behalf of the Govt and people of India.”
The Indian delegation includes:
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President Droupadi Murmu
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Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs
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George Kurian, Minister of State
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Joshua Peter De Souza, Deputy Speaker of Goa
Why This Visit Matters
This rare diplomatic visit underscores India’s commitment to international harmony and interfaith respect. It also strengthens India-Vatican relations, built on mutual understanding and shared values of peace and compassion.
President Murmu’s Schedule in Vatican
April 25: Laying a Wreath at Saint Peter’s Basilica
President Murmu will begin the solemn visit by paying homage to Pope Francis at the iconic Basilica of Saint Peter, Vatican City’s spiritual heart. She will lay a wreath in memory of the departed leader, symbolizing India’s deep respect.
April 26: Attending the Funeral Mass
On the following day, the President will attend the State Funeral Mass of Pope Francis at Saint Peter’s Square. Dignitaries from all over the world are expected to be present for this major global event, paying their respects to a religious leader who touched lives across borders.
India Declares National Mourning
Three Days of State Mourning Announced
In an official statement, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs declared three days of state mourning across India in honor of Pope Francis.
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April 22 and 23: Initial two days of mourning already observed.
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April 26: Mourning coinciding with the day of the funeral.
During this period:
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The national flag will fly at half-mast on all buildings where it is normally displayed.
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There will be no official entertainment across the country.
This rare gesture signifies the global influence of Pope Francis and the depth of India’s sympathy at his passing.
Official Statement by MEA
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a heartfelt tribute, saying:
“His Holiness Pope Francis will be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world.”
The message reflects the Pope’s profound impact, not just within the Christian community, but on global efforts to promote peace, justice, and environmental care.
Pope Francis and India: A Legacy of Connection
Pope Francis maintained a warm relationship with Indian spiritual leaders, often acknowledging India’s contributions to global peace and interfaith dialogue. Though he never visited India during his papacy, there were consistent diplomatic exchanges between New Delhi and the Holy See.
As President Murmu and the Indian delegation attend the funeral of Pope Francis, they do so not only as government representatives but as symbols of India’s respect for faith, unity, and global solidarity.
Pope Francis’s message of compassion, climate consciousness, and care for the vulnerable will continue to resonate around the world.
