• Source:AFP
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K Padmarajan, a 65-year-old tyre repair shop owner from Mettur, Tamil Nadu, is undeterred by his 238 previous failed attempts at public office. As he prepares once again to contest the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections, seeking to prove that an ordinary man can participate in an equal manner in the world’s biggest democratic exercise. 

While most candidates seek victory, Padmarajan emphasises that for him, the true triumph lies in participating, a unique perspective that sets him apart from other candidates. Even in the face of inevitable defeat, he remains ''happy losing.'' 

Padmarajan, whose unwavering commitment has earned him the nickname of ''Election King'', is vying for a parliamentary seat in Tamil Nadu’s Dharmapuri district this year. His journey has taken him across the country, competing in elections ranging from presidential to local polls.

Padmarajan's efforts have earned him the nickname 'Election King.' (Image: AFP)  

Despite losing to prominent figures like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former premiers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh, and former Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Padmarajan remains unfazed. ''Victory is secondary,'' he asserts. ''Who is the opposite candidate? I do not care.''

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Padmarajan's commitment comes at a cost and not just with dedication. Over the past three decades, he estimates spending thousands of rupees on nomination fees. His latest attempt requires a security deposit of Rs 25,000, refundable only if he secures more than 16 per cent of the vote.

Meanwhile, his sole victory lies in earning a place as India’s most unsuccessful candidate in the Limca Book of Records. His best performance was in 2011, when he contested the assembly elections in Mettur, winning 6,273 votes compared to the winning candidate’s 75,000-plus votes.

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Padmarajan's unique perspective sets him apart from other candidates. (Image: AFP)

Beyond his tyre repair shop, Padmarajan provides homoeopathic remedies and works as a local media editor. However, his primary focus remains electoral participation. ''It is about involvement,'' he explains. ''I want to be a role model, creating awareness.''

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His dedication has transformed him from a subject of ridicule to a sought-after speaker. He shares insights on bouncing back from defeat, emphasising that ''failure is best.'' Stressing the importance of citizen participation, he encourages everyone to exercise their franchise.

As he continues to fight elections, Padmarajan acknowledges that winning would be a shock. ''I will have a heart attack,'' he laughs. His unwavering commitment serves as a reminder that in the democratic process, every vote matters, regardless of the outcome.