The attendance of President Droupadi Murmu and a high-ranking Indian delegation at the State Funeral of Pope Francis underscores a moment of global reflection, as India joins the world in mourning the Pontiff’s passing. President Murmu, accompanied by Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State for Minority Affairs, Shri George Kurian, and Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly, Shri Joshua De Souza, arrived in Rome on April 25 to attend the funeral on April 26.
The Indian government declared three days of State Mourning after Pope Francis’ passing on April 21, 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended heartfelt condolences, recognizing the Pope’s special connection with India. The event has had notable effects on the religious goods market, with a clear increase in demand for items such as rosaries, candles, and religious memorabilia.
