India Declares Three-Day State Mourning Following the Death of Pope Francis

New Delhi, 21 April 2025: India has declared a three-day State Mourning to honour the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, Supreme Pontiff of the Holy See, who died today, 21 April 2025.

The Government of India announced that the nation will observe two days of mourning on Tuesday, 22 April, and Wednesday, 23 April. A third day of mourning will coincide with the day of the Pope’s funeral, the date of which is yet to be confirmed.

As a mark of respect, the National Flag will fly at half-mast on all government buildings where it is usually hoisted. No official entertainment will take place during the mourning period.

Pope Francis, the 266th successor of St Peter, served as the spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide and was widely recognised for his emphasis on compassion, care for the poor, and interfaith dialogue. His passing marks the end of a significant era in the Catholic Church and has elicited global tributes from leaders and faithful alike.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

Image credit: Agenzia Fides