Bhubaneswar, April 22: The Odisha government has announced a three-day state mourning following the demise of Pope Francis, the supreme head of the Roman Catholic Church. The mourning will be observed on April 22 (Tuesday) and April 23 (Wednesday), along with an additional day for the Pope’s final rites.
This state observance comes in line with the Government of India’s declaration of a three-day national mourning, honoring the legacy and global influence of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday morning at the age of 88.
During the mourning period, all government buildings across the country where the national flag is flown will hoist it at half-mast. Additionally, no official entertainment or celebratory events will be held during this time.
Pope Francis, the first pontiff from South America, was widely respected for his humility, compassion, and strong advocacy for the poor and marginalized. Despite battling multiple health issues in recent years, including a near recovery from double pneumonia, his influence continued to resonate globally.
His death, coming just a day after Easter Sunday, has cast a shadow of grief across the world, with tributes pouring in from all corners for a leader who redefined papal service through empathy and simplicity.
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