Potterheads, time to read

The theme this year is Diagon Alley. Pic courtesy/Getty Images

Wouldn't it be swell, if we could just find a cure for Covid-19 in one of Professor Snape's multi-hued potions, or cure our loved ones with a swish and flick of a wand? You can call it wishful thinking, but Potterheads of the world know better than that; there's always reason to believe in magic, they'll tell you. If you're one of those believers, the Harry Potter Book Night is just the escape you need. Hosted by international publishing house Bloomsbury every year, together with libraries, schools, fan clubs and activity groups across the world, the Harry Potter Book Night gives fans of JK Rowling's series a chance to celebrate the fantasy world.

Siddhant Tripathi

With 7th annual edition of the event being celebrated this year, desi Potterheads can join the fan-fare too now, thanks to Bhubaneswar-based e-learning platform Astrix Study's efforts. Started by a couple of teens, the platform is the first to host a virtual edition of Harry Potter Book Night in India, claims 14-year-old founder Siddhant Tripathi. "Since no one had officially done this in India, we thought it would be interesting to host a night dedicated to Harry Potter. This time, the theme is Diagon Alley [the wizarding alley and shopping area in the series]," he informs us.

Prajakta Koli and Rajesh Kava will attend the event

The self-confessed Potterhead shares that during the event, participants will be walked through the concept of Harry Potter Book Night. "YouTuber and actor Prajakta Koli, who's a huge fan of the series, will join in. We'll also have voice actor Rajesh Kava tuning in; he dubbed Daniel Radcliffe's voice in Hindi. So, it will be interesting to chat with him about how he landed the gig," says Tripathi, adding that actor, producer and brand ambassador Arfi Laamba will be part of the discussion, too.

Participants will get to deep-dive into the world of Hogwarts and Diagon Alley, while engaging in activities like book-reading, craft-making and live performances. Although there's no letter from Hogwarts at the end, Tripathi promises that signees will receive a themed kit, along with a certificate.

On June 24, 5 pm
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