In a deeply sorrowful moment for the global community, His Holiness Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away, sending waves of grief across religious, political, and humanitarian circles. The Vatican confirmed the news, stating the 88-year-old spiritual leader passed peacefully in his residence, surrounded by close aides and prayers.

As tributes poured in from across the world, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to express his heartfelt condolences.

"Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world," PM Modi wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

"From a young age, he devoted himself towards realising the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope. I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace," he added.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pontiff in over a millennium. Ascending to the papacy in 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, Francis quickly became known for his humility, progressive outlook, and unwavering advocacy for the marginalized.