New Delhi, May 8 -- White smoke emerged from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Thursday, signaling that the conclave of 133 cardinals has successfully elected a new pope.

The decision, reached on the second day of voting, ends a closely watched conclave following the resignation of Pope Francis. However, the identity of the new pontiff remains under wraps until the traditional announcement is made from the balcony of St Peter's Basilica.

The election marks a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church's 1.4 billion followers worldwide, who now await the introduction of their new spiritual leader.

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Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from MINT....