Visakhapatnam, June 7, 2026: Archbishop Prakash Mallavarapu, Archbishop Emeritus of Visakhapatnam and a respected leader of the Catholic Church in India, passed away on June 7, 2026, at a private hospital in Visakhapatnam. He was 77 years old.
The Archbishop had been admitted to St. Joseph’s Hospital in May due to severe breathing difficulties and was later transferred to Medicover Hospital for specialized treatment. After showing signs of recovery and being discharged, his health suddenly worsened because of acute respiratory distress. He passed away peacefully in the early hours of Sunday.
Born on January 29, 1949, in Nizamabad, Telangana, Archbishop Prakash pursued his priestly formation at St. Peter’s Minor Seminary and the Papal Seminary in Pune. He was ordained a priest on October 11, 1979.
During his long ministry, he served in several important roles in the Church. He was Bishop of Cuddapah from 1998 to 2002, Bishop of Vijayawada from 2002 to 2012, and Archbishop of Visakhapatnam from 2012 until his retirement in 2024. He also served as Apostolic Administrator of Srikakulam and held many leadership positions at regional and national levels.
One of his most notable responsibilities was serving as Secretary General of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) from 2005 to 2011. He also chaired several commissions related to healthcare, education, theology, and pastoral ministry.
Archbishop Prakash Mallavarapu will be remembered for his dedicated service, intellectual leadership, and commitment to the growth of the Church in India. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced shortly.
