Editorial

The heartfelt reflection, Sudheendra Kulkarni, former Chairman of the Observer Research Foundation, recounts his personal encounter with Pope Francis at the Vatican. During their meeting, the Pope expressed profound admiration for India, highlighting the nation's rich spiritual heritage and its commitment to unity in diversity.

Kulkarni describes the meeting as an intimate exchange, where Pope Francis spoke candidly about his respect for India. The Pope emphasized India's role as a beacon of spiritual wisdom and moral leadership in the modern world. He acknowledged the country's ability to maintain harmony among its diverse religious and cultural communities, viewing this as a testament to its enduring values.

The Pope's comments during the meeting underscored his commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and understanding. He expressed a desire to strengthen ties between the Catholic Church and other religious communities in India, recognizing the importance of collaboration in addressing global challenges. This approach aligns with his broader vision of promoting peace and mutual respect among different faiths.

Pope Francis highlighted India's unique position on the world stage, noting its capacity to offer moral guidance amidst contemporary global issues. He pointed to the nation's rich philosophical traditions and its longstanding commitment to non-violence and social justice as qualities that the world can look to for inspiration.

Sudheendra Kulkarni's account provides a personal glimpse into Pope Francis' admiration for India. The meeting serves as a reminder of the importance of interfaith dialogue and the role of nations in promoting global peace and understanding. Pope Francis' respect for India reflects a shared commitment to values that transcend borders and religions.