Nearly a billion people in India have been called to vote, and the process will take more than two months. Tell us what it's like to run for office in the world's biggest election star MP Shashi Tharoor.
Mr Tharoor, in the state Kerala, in which you are running, voting closes on April 26. Can we say congratulations?
I won't be able to tell you if I won until June 4th.
Why so late?
India votes in seven seasons. At the end of each election season, unopened ballot boxes are locked in a safe. In early June, when all 29 states have voted, all the ballot boxes will be opened and counted at the same time. So I have to be patient until that time comes, even though it is difficult.
In which season does Kerala vote?
We are in the second season. So far, only 190 constituencies have elected their representatives to the Indian Parliament, leaving 353 constituencies missing.
Why do elections in India take so long?
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