President Droupadi Murmu departed for Vatican City on Friday to attend the state funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88. Her visit represents India’s official gesture of condolence on behalf of the government and the people of the country. Accompanying the President are Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju; Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, George Kurian; and Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly, Joshua De Souza. The President’s office confirmed the departure in a message on X, formerly known as Twitter, stating, “President Droupadi Murmu departs for Vatican City to attend the State Funeral of HH Pope Francis.”

Pope Francis made history as the first non-European pontiff in nearly 1,300 years. His death has been mourned across the globe, including in India, where a three-day state mourning was declared to honour his legacy. President Murmu will be on a two-day official visit to the Vatican. As part of her itinerary, she will lay a wreath at the Basilica of Saint Peter in Vatican City to pay homage to the late Pope. On April 26, she will attend the funeral Mass at Saint Peter’s Square, a ceremony expected to draw global dignitaries and leaders.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, her participation signifies India’s respect for Pope Francis’ contributions to peace, compassion, and interfaith dialogue. The visit also emphasizes the importance India places on maintaining strong diplomatic and cultural ties with the global community. This solemn occasion serves as a moment of reflection on the Pope’s spiritual and humanitarian legacy, and Indias tribute reflects the values of unity and reverence across faiths.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from X@rashtrapatibhvn.