Pope Francis Passes Away at 88; Vatican and the World Mourns a Beloved Leader

Pope Francis Passes Away at 88; Vatican and the World Mourns a Beloved Leader

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 22, 2025

Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta. The announcement was made at 9:45 AM by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, who expressed deep sorrow at the loss of the beloved Holy Father.

Cardinal Farrell described Pope Francis as a true disciple who dedicated his life to serving the Lord and the Church with courage, fidelity, and universal love, especially towards the poor and marginalized. The Camerlengo's announcement marked the beginning of the formal mourning period in the Vatican.

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According to Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, Pope Francis' mortal remains are expected to be transferred to St. Peter's Basilica on the morning of Wednesday, April 23, 2025, allowing the faithful to pay their final respects. Final arrangements are being organized following the first General Congregation of Cardinals scheduled for Tuesday morning.

On Monday evening at 8:00 PM, the rite of certification of death and placement in the coffin was conducted in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta. The declaration of death was read aloud, validated by Cardinal Farrell, and the ceremony concluded within an hour. Seals were also placed on the papal apartments in both the Apostolic Palace and the Casa Santa Marta.

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Pope Francis’ closest collaborators began paying their respects on Monday evening. Meanwhile, preparations for the funeral are underway, with a date expected to be decided shortly.

The 88-year-old pontiff had been battling health issues in recent months. He was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital in February 2025 after suffering from bronchitis, which later developed into bilateral pneumonia. After 38 days of hospitalization, he returned to Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery.

Throughout his life, Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, showed resilience, having undergone lung surgery in his youth due to a severe respiratory infection. Despite facing multiple health challenges, he remained active in his mission, even approving an updated liturgical book for papal funeral rites in April 2024 to reflect a simpler, faith-centered approach to funeral ceremonies.

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Pope Francis made history in 2013 by becoming the first Jesuit Pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pontiff in over 1,200 years. His decade-long papacy was marked by a focus on mercy, humility, environmental stewardship, and inclusiveness, with a special emphasis on serving the marginalized.

The late Pope’s final public address was delivered on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, where he called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, continuing his lifelong advocacy for peace.

In tribute to Pope Francis, the Government of India has declared a three-day state mourning. State mourning will be observed on April 22 and 23, while the third day of mourning will coincide with the day of his funeral.

According to Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, Pope Francis had personally requested that his funeral rites be simple, focusing on the faith of the Church in the Risen Body of Christ rather than worldly grandeur.

Archbishop Ravelli emphasized that the renewed funeral rite highlights the Pope’s identity as a pastor and disciple of Christ, echoing the spirit in which Pope Francis lived his entire ministry.


Wyndham to Debut Ramada Brand in Vythiri, Kerala with New Hotel Launch

Wyndham to Debut Ramada Brand in Vythiri, Kerala with New Hotel Launch

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 2, 2025

In a significant boost to Kerala’s flourishing tourism sector, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has partnered with developer Asok Thirikkoth to introduce a new property, Ramada by Wyndham Wayanad Vythiri, set to open in 2026. The 52-room upscale hotel will rise amidst the lush green landscape of Vythiri, a region rapidly emerging as a hotspot for wellness and eco-tourism.

Owned by Asok Thirikkoth, the upcoming hotel will bring the globally trusted Ramada brand to one of South India’s most scenic destinations. Once open, it will offer modern, thoughtfully designed guest rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, a spa, meeting spaces, and a host of amenities tailored for leisure and business travellers alike.

“We are proud to bring the globally respected Ramada brand to Vythiri, a region that is fast becoming a major hub for wellness and eco-tourism,” said Asok Thirikkoth, owner of the property. “This collaboration with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts reinforces our commitment to developing high-quality hospitality experiences that complement Wayanad’s natural offerings. We are confident this hotel will play a pivotal role in enriching the region’s tourism landscape.”

Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director, Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, added, “Bringing the Ramada brand to Wayanad marks an important step in our strategy to expand across India’s key leisure destinations. Our collaboration with Mr. Thirikkoth reflects our shared vision of delivering quality hospitality experiences in emerging tourism hubs, and further reinforces our presence in South India.”

The addition of this property underlines Wyndham’s focused approach to expanding in India’s high-potential tier-2 and tier-3 cities, particularly in leisure destinations that are experiencing a rising demand for trusted international hotel brands.

With the introduction of Ramada by Wyndham Wayanad Vythiri, both Wyndham and Asok Thirikkoth aim to offer a world-class hospitality experience that celebrates the region’s natural charm while meeting global standards of comfort and service.


Fairfield by Marriott Expands in Jaipur with New Hotel on Tonk Road

Fairfield by Marriott Expands in Jaipur with New Hotel on Tonk Road

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 2, 2025

Fairfield by Marriott, a part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio, has officially opened Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road, marking a significant addition to Jaipur’s growing hospitality landscape. Located in the heart of the Pink City, the hotel offers a seamless mix of modern comfort, functional design, and warm hospitality, ideal for today’s value-seeking travellers.

Situated just 6 km from Jaipur International Airport and 8 km from the railway station, the hotel provides easy access to popular tourist spots including Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, and City Palace, along with local bazaars and heritage streets. This makes it a convenient base for both business and leisure stays.

“Fairfield by Marriott is one of the fastest-growing brands in our select-service portfolio,” said Ranju Alex, Regional Vice President South Asia, Marriott International. “With this opening, we’re deepening our presence in high-potential markets like Jaipur and bringing Fairfield’s warm, inviting experience to more destinations in India.”

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The hotel offers 115 thoughtfully designed rooms that focus on simplicity, featuring plush bedding, ergonomic workspaces, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Large windows provide stunning views of Jaipur’s skyline, while the public spaces reflect the brand’s signature welcoming aesthetic with open layouts and natural light.

A major highlight is Vista 20, the all-day dining restaurant located on the 20th floor, offering a curated menu of international and Indian dishes alongside picturesque views of the city. A well-stocked bar adds to the relaxed atmosphere, perfect for winding down after a day of meetings or sightseeing.

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The hotel also features a fully equipped fitness centre and a spacious, pillar-less ballroom spread across 3,000 sq. ft., with an additional 1,000 sq. ft. pre-function area. These flexible event spaces make it suitable for corporate gatherings, weddings, and special occasions.

“We are thrilled to welcome guests to Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road,” said Gautam Chhabra, Hotel Manager. “Whether you're here for business, celebrations, or exploring Jaipur, we offer comfort, convenience, and a truly memorable experience.”

With this opening, Fairfield by Marriott continues its mission to provide dependable, value-driven stays across India, especially in culturally vibrant cities like Jaipur.


Taj Expands Footprint with New Signing in Naina Tikker, Himachal Pradesh

Taj Expands Footprint with New Signing in Naina Tikker, Himachal Pradesh

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 1, 2025

The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality firm, has announced the signing of a new Taj-branded hotel in Naina Tikker, Himachal Pradesh. This brownfield project marks the brand's strategic expansion into a serene, relatively unexplored hill station in the Sirmaur district.

The upcoming 120-key Taj Naina Tikker will offer uninterrupted views of the majestic Dhauladhar mountain range. The resort will feature an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, bar, and a lobby lounge. For events and celebrations, it will include a spacious 4,000 sq. ft. banquet hall, meeting rooms, and pre-function areas. Wellness facilities such as a heated pool, gym, spa, health club, and activity centre aim to enhance the experience for both leisure and group travellers.

Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice PresidentReal Estate & Development, IHCL, stated, “Naina Tikker represents a unique opportunity for the Taj brand to mark its presence in a relatively unexplored part of Himachal Pradesh... It is poised to become a sought-after destination for leisure, MICE and social celebrations.”

Located amidst protected forests, Naina Tikker is a tranquil destination known for its pristine beauty, spiritual heritage, and vibrant biodiversity. With landmarks like the Mata Naina Tikker shrine and Bhureshwar Mahadev Temple, the area holds strong appeal for both spiritual and nature-loving travellers.

Mr. Sachin Kapoor and Ms. Sagarika Kapoor of Micro Turners Group, the hotel’s development partner, said, “We are excited to partner with IHCL for another project and bring the iconic Taj brand to Naina Tikker. This collaboration will redefine luxury hospitality in the region.”

With this addition, IHCL will have a total of 13 hotels in Himachal Pradesh, including eight currently under development, further strengthening its foothold in the North Indian hospitality market and forming a travel circuit across Chandigarh, Chail, Theog, and Dehradun.

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