The American missionary was killed trying to evangelise to the Sentinelese, one of the most isolated tribes in the world.
The hunter-gather's live in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and are cut off from the outside word.
John Allen Chau was reportedly killed with arrows when he arrived at the Islands on 17th November.
Indian official's attempts to retrieve his body have been unsuccessful.
Reports suggest that the rescue efforts have been put on hold so as not to disturb the protected Sentinelese tribespeople.
People are forbidden by law from visiting the Sentinelese and the tribesmen have repeatedly treated outsiders with hostility.
The isolation of the tribe means contact with others could pose a significant health risk, as they may have no immunity to common illness.
Posting a statement on John's social media feed, his family expressed their grief: "He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and best friend to us.
"To others he was a Christian missionary, a wilderness EMT, an international soccer coach, and a mountaineer. He loved God, life, helping those in need, and he had nothing but love for the Sentinelese people."
They added: "We forgive those who reportedly responsible for his death"
Reuters reported that that before he was killed, Chau wrote he was "doing this to establish the kingdom of Jesus on the Islands...Do not blame the natives if I am killed."
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