Since then, Alphonsa's tomb near the convent she lived in has been a hallowed place of veneration for Catholics.
As the Pope made the declaration, the faithful sang hymns and distributed sweets to each other. Special prayers were also held at both the places.
Long queues were seen in front of Alphonsa Museum at Kudamaloor where the belongings of the saint have been kept.
Young and old have been thronging Bharananganam and Kudamaloor since the past few days to worship as they believe that offering prayers at her tomb will cure illness and bring them good luck.
Image: Lakshmikutty Amma, 99, a friend and classmate of Sister Alphonsa, at her house in Kodamallur.
Photograph: Raveendran/AFP/Getty Images
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