India announces three-day state mourning for Pope Francis following his death at 88

India has declared a three-day state mourning following the death of Pope Francis, the Supreme Pontiff of the Holy See, on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a statement confirming the mourning period, which will run from Tuesday, April 22, to Wednesday, April 23. A third day of mourning will be observed on the day of the Pope’s funeral. During this period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast throughout India on all buildings where it is regularly displayed, and no official entertainment will be held.

Pope Francis, who was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, made history in 2013 as the first Latin American to become the Pope. His papacy was marked by his focus on humility, the care of the poor, and efforts to address global issues such as climate change and capitalism. These stances won him admiration from progressive circles but also sparked controversy, particularly among more conservative factions within the Catholic Church.

The Pope had been suffering from chronic lung disease for much of his life, having had part of one lung removed as a young man. He was hospitalized in February 2025 for a respiratory crisis that developed into double pneumonia. Despite being discharged after 38 days of treatment, he remained frail. His death followed a final public appearance on Easter Sunday, where he blessed thousands of people gathered in St. Peter's Square, marking his last public engagement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing Pope Francis as a "beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage" who was deeply committed to the ideals of Lord Christ. Modi also recalled his meetings with the Pope, noting his dedication to inclusive development and his affection for the people of India. The Pope's outreach to the Indian community and his contributions to global peace and dialogue were widely acknowledged.

The Ministry of Home Affairs further detailed that the mourning would observe a halt in official entertainment activities across the nation. The announcement is a formal expression of respect for Pope Francis, whose leadership of the Catholic Church spanned over 12 years. His death marks the end of a transformative papacy that had a significant impact on the global Catholic community and broader international affairs.