Indian PM Narendra Modi on Monday expressed his sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff to head the 1.4 billion Catholics across the globe.

Modi wrote on X: "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," he said.

Modi further wrote in his condolence message, "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."

Modi remembered his previous meeting with the religious leader and said he was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-around development.

"His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace," Modi said.

Pope Francis Dies At 88

Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City state, died at the age of 88 on Monday.

Pope Francis died at his residence after a prolonged illness, the Vatican has announced.

The Vatican News wrote on X, "Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church.

"He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God."

He was the second-oldest serving Pope in the world, with only Leo XIII (93) serving the top religious position until his death in 1903.

Pope Francis' predecessor, Benedict XVI,died at 95. However, he retired at 85 from the position.

Pope Francis became the Pope in 2013 after Benedict XVI retired.

He had suffered ailments on multiple occasions over the last 12 years.

(With inputs from IBNS)