The Government of India has declared a three-day State Mourning following the death of His Holiness Pope Francis on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City.
According to an official notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, State Mourning will be observed nationwide on April 22 and 23, and again on the day of the Pope’s funeral. During this period, the National Flag will be flown at half‑mast on all government buildings where it is regularly displayed, and no official entertainment will be held.
“Three‑Day State Mourning as a mark of respect on the passing away of His Holiness Pope Francis, Supreme Pontiff of the Holy See,” the Home Ministry statement read. “His Holiness Pope Francis, Supreme Pontiff of the Holy See, passed away today, the 21st April, 2025. As a mark of respect, three‑day State Mourning shall be observed throughout India, in the following manner: two days’ State Mourning on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, and Wednesday, April 23, 2025; one day’s State Mourning on the day of the funeral.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the Pope’s death, saying, “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.”
Modi recalled his meetings with the Pope during the G7 Summit in Apulia, Italy, and added, “His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace.”
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also mourned the loss on social media, writing, “Saddened at the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. His compassion and commitment to building a better world defined his papacy. May his soul rest in peace.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the future Pope was ordained a priest in 1969. Following Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation on February 28, 2013, Cardinal Bergoglio was elected as his successor on March 13, 2013, choosing the name Francis in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi.
The Vatican has announced a nine-day mourning period known as the “Novendiale,” after which the College of Cardinals will convene in conclave to elect the next Pope.
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