The global mourning for Pope Francis has created a unique opportunity for local businesses, particularly in the religious goods sector. President Droupadi Murmu led the Indian delegation to Vatican City for the State Funeral of Pope Francis, 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. President Murmu paid her respects at the funeral held on April 26, following the Pope’s passing on April 21, 2025.
The Indian government declared three days of State Mourning, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended condolences, commemorating the Pope’s lasting influence in India. In parallel, there has been a rise in consumer interest for religious items such as rosaries, candles, and Pope-related memorabilia, showing the economic ripple effect of national mourning.
