With Pope Francis gone, who are the four Indian Cardinals to vote for his successor?

NEW DELHI: Following Pope Francis's passing, the Vatican will observe a nine-day mourning period known as the Novendiale, an ancient Roman tradition that remains in practice today. During this solemn time, preparations will quietly begin for the election of the next Pontiff. Once the mourning concludes, the College of Cardinals will convene in a Conclave to elect the new Vicar of Christ.

Of the 135 cardinals currently eligible to vote in the Papal Conclave, four hail from India: Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, Cardinal Baselios Cleemis, Cardinal Anthony Poola, and Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad.

The Pope died at the age of 88 on Easter Monday at his residence in Casa Santa Marta within the Vatican.

Who are the four Indians?

Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad: The 51-year-old currently serves as the Cardinal-Deacon of S Antonio di Padova a Circonvallazione Appia. He also holds the position of Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue. His role places him at the forefront of the Vatican’s efforts to promote understanding between different faiths.

Cardinal Filipe Neri Antonio Sebastiao do Rosario Ferrao: The 72-year-old is the Metropolitan Archbishop of Goa and Daman in India. He currently serves as the President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India. In addition, he leads the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences as its President.

Cardinal Anthony Poola: The 63-year-old is the Metropolitan Archbishop of Hyderabad.

Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Thottunkal: He is Major Archbishop of Trivandrum of the Syro-Malankara. He also serves as the president of the Synod of the Syro-Malankara Church.

As of April 19, the College of Cardinals consists of 252 members, with 135 eligible to vote in a conclave to elect the next Pope. During this sacred gathering in the Sistine Chapel, the world looks to the chimney for a centuries-old signal: black smoke signifies that no decision has been reached, while white smoke announces the successful election of a new Pontiff.