New Delhi, April 21 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed his grief at the death of Pope Francis, saying that he was 'deeply pained' by his passing.

PM Modi offered his condolences to the global Catholic community, remembering Pope Francis as a 'beacon of compassion'.

"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.

"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 igni...