President Droupadi Murmu departed for Vatican City on Friday to attend the State Funeral of Pope Francis, representing the Government and people of India in offering condolences for the late pontiff’s passing.
She is accompanied by Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries George Kurian, and Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly Joshua De Souza.
The Rashtrapati Bhavan shared on X, “President Droupadi Murmu departs for Vatican City to attend the State Funeral of HH Pope Francis,” adding that she is joined by key dignitaries for the solemn occasion.
The two-day visit, from April 25 to 26, will include a wreath-laying ceremony at the Basilica of Saint Peter on April 25, followed by President Murmu’s participation in the funeral Mass at Saint Peter’s Square on April 26. The event will see the attendance of several global leaders and dignitaries.
Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 on April 21 at his residence in Casa Santa Marta. As the first Latin American pope, he led the Roman Catholic Church since March 13, 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI. Known globally for his humility, compassion, and spiritual leadership, Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of inclusivity and service to humanity.
In honour of his funeral, India has declared April 26 a day of state mourning. The national flag will be flown at half-mast across all buildings where it is regularly displayed, and no official entertainment will be held.
The Ministry of External Affairs, in a statement, said, “His Holiness Pope Francis will be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage by millions worldwide.”
