National Flag at half-mast in Chennai mourns Pope Francis demise

Remembering the Pope, Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin wrote on X, "Deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Francis, a transformative figure who led the Catholic Church with empathy and progressive values. He was a compassionate and progressive voice who brought humility, moral courage, and a deep sense of empathy to the papacy. His dedication to the poor, his embrace of the marginalised, and his advocacy for justice, peace, and interfaith dialogue earned him respect far beyond the Catholic world. The legacy he leaves behind is one of compassion in action and faith grounded in humanity."

Pope Francis (88) passed away at his residence, Casa Santa Marta, in the Vatican on Monday.

The Indian government has declared a three-day state mourning as a mark of respect following the passing of Pope Francis on Monday, according to an official notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Mourning will be observed across the country on April 22 and 23 and again on the day of the Pope's funeral.

The Home Ministry stated: "Three-Day State Mourning as a mark of respect on the passing away of His Holiness Pope Francis, Supreme Pontiff of the Holy See."

"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, the 22nd April, 2025 and Wednesday, the 23rd April, 2025. One day's State Mourning on the day of the funeral," the statement added.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the Pope's death. He said Pope Francis' "affection for the people of India will always be cherished."

"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 towards realizing the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope," PM Modi said on X.

"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," the Prime Minister added.