Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Government has declared a three-day state mourning to commemorate the passing of Pope Francis. The mourning period will span two days, April 22 and April 23, with an additional day of mourning observed on the day of the Pope’s funeral, which will be announced later.
During this time, the national flag will be flown at half-mast in locations where it is regularly displayed, and there will be no official entertainment. District collectors have been instructed to notify relevant officials in their jurisdictions to ensure that the national flag is flown at half-mast.
In a post on X, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan referred to the Pope as “a beacon of compassion who stood with the poor and marginalized, took a critical stance against global capitalism, and championed interfaith dialogue.” He added that “Pope Francis’ legacy will inspire generations striving for justice and equality.”
Additionally, the entire country has been placed under a three-day mourning period, as per an official notification from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The nationwide mourning will also take place on April 22 and 23, and again on the day of the Pope’s funeral.
Pope Francis, aged 88, passed away at his residence, Casa Santa Marta, in the Vatican on April 21. The Home Ministry’s announcement stated: “Three-Day State Mourning as a mark of respect on the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, Supreme Pontiff of the Holy See.”
The statement continued, “His Holiness Pope Francis, Supreme Pontiff of the Holy See, passed away today, April 21, 2025. As a mark of respect, three-day State Mourning shall be observed throughout India, with two days of State Mourning on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, and Wednesday, April 23, 2025, and one day of State Mourning on the day of the funeral.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow over the Pope’s death, stating that Pope Francis’ “affection for the people of India will always be cherished.” He wrote on X, “Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief, my heartfelt condolences go out to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage by millions worldwide. From a young age, he dedicated himself to realizing the ideals of Lord Christ and diligently served the poor and downtrodden. He ignited a spirit of hope for those who were suffering.”
