Kannada actor Parul Yadav recalls witnessing Pope Francis’s final public appearance (2025)

Actress Parul Yadav unknowingly witnessed Pope Francis' final public appearance during his Easter blessing at St. Peter’s Basilica. The Pope passed away the next morning

Actress Parul Yadav was among the many faithful who stood at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City as Pope Francis delivered his Easter Sunday speech and blessing. Little did she or the others know that this would be his final public appearance.

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On Monday morning, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced the Pope’s passing from Casa Santa Marta with these words, “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.”

Parul Yadav pens tribute to Pope Francis

Following his demise, Parul took to her Instagram to share pictures from her visit to the Vatican. Along with the photos, she wrote, “Yesterday, on Easter Sunday, I stood at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City—unplanned, unprepared—just grateful to be there. Pope Francis, though unwell, surprised the world with his presence and addressed the crowd. None of us knew it would be his final blessing. Today, he’s gone. The moment now feels even more sacred, surreal, and deeply humbling. What a gift to have witnessed grace in motion. Rest in peace, Holy Father.”

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A post shared by Parul Yadav (@theparulyadav)

Despite being severely ill, Pope Francis appeared on Easter Sunday to greet the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square and deliver the Urbi et Orbi blessing—one of the most solemn blessings in the Catholic Church.

One of his final messages, read aloud on his behalf, stated, “I appeal to all those in positions of political responsibility in our world not to yield to the logic of fear which only leads to isolation from others, but rather to use the resources available to help the needy, to fight hunger and to encourage initiatives that promote development.”

Pope Francis to be buried at Basilica of St. Mary Major

He will be buried on Saturday at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, a place of deep spiritual significance for him.

This marks the first papal burial at the basilica since the 17th century. Pope Francis, known for his humility and simplicity, requested a modest tomb with only a simple inscription. The basilica is also home to the tombs of seven other popes, saints such as Matthew and Jerome, and artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

His body may be transferred temporarily to St. Peter’s Basilica on April 23 to allow the faithful to pay their last respects. The General Congregations for electing a new pope will begin on Tuesday, with the Conclave expected to be held between May 5 and May 10.

World leaders are expected to attend the funeral, and both India and Italy have declared three days of national mourning.

Just hours before his death, Pope Francis had met U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and participated in the Easter service, despite his frail condition.

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