Monday, April 4 2005 09:15 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

London: Hindu organisations in the UK mourned the death of Pope John Paul II, saying the Pontiff would be remembered by people across religions for his personal qualities.

"Pope John Paul II will be remembered by people of all faiths for his courage in standing up to political ideology, for his love of those who were disadvantaged in life," the Milton Keynes Hindu Association said in it's message.

"A man of firm spiritual convictions who was guided by his own personal humility and the word of God," the Pope was one who was compassionate "in forgiving those who trespassed", said Kapil Dudakia of the Association.

He added, "The world shall mourn his passing. He will be missed by everyone in the Catholic Church, but he will be missed equally by the good people of the world, for today we have all lost a kind soul."

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) also condoled the death of the Pope saying, "The passing away of John Paul II is a great loss not only to the Roman Catholic Church, but to all people of faith."

"As a religious leader, the Pope fought for his principles as vigorously as he practiced them, giving strong, meaningful guidance to his Church. We pray that these qualities of leadership and commitment will continue to serve as an example to all," Shaunaka Rishi Das, chair of ISKCON said.