New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu has departed for Vatican City to attend the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88. The solemn visit marks India’s official tribute to the spiritual leader revered worldwide for his humility and progressive vision.
President Murmu is on a two-day official visit and will represent India at the state funeral. She is accompanied by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State George Kurian, and Goa Deputy Speaker Joshua De Souza.
On Friday, the president will lay a wreath at the Basilica of Saint Peter and attend the funeral Mass at Saint Peter’s Square, where leaders and dignitaries from around the world will gather to pay their final respects.
“President Droupadi Murmu departs for Vatican City to attend the State Funeral of HH Pope Francis,” the President’s Secretariat posted on X.
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed her itinerary, stating that her presence “reflects the deep respect and solidarity of the people of India” toward the late pontiff.
In a gesture of national mourning, the Government of India declared three days of state mourning following Pope Francis’ demise—the first non-European pope in over 1,000 years.
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