LETTER TO HERMIONE GRANGER

Dear Hermione Jean Granger,

When I first flipped through the pages of Harry Potter and the philosopher’s stone I came across your name that I even didn’t know how to pronounce but I was instantly fascinated by your courage to stand up against ‘ The boy who lived’ when he went against the school rules. At times when I was lonely I would slip into the congenial atmosphere of Hogwarts and enjoy your company. You were a bushy haired girl, muggle born making your way in the magical world that was in the midst of a deadly war.

You taught me that reading is the coolest thing in the world and it doesn’t make a person dorky. Everyone has to acknowledge that Harry and Ron wouldn’t be alive in the first year if it wasn’t for your quick wit and intelligence. Nothing came easy though; poring over books all night or juggling 12 subjects in the third year using a time turner was a herculean task. Academic knowledge wasn’t enough to face the real world; you braced yourself for the hardships and remained undeterred right till the very end. “ Books! And cleverness! There are more important things- friendship and bravery”.  You were with Harry and Ron through thick and thin, a true symbol of friendship.

You strongly fought for what is right even though it meant a lonely and gruelling path. Starting S.P.E.W for the elf rights and passionately working for it even when everyone was against it proved your mettle.  You never let the Slytherin’s jeers get to you instead you spread the message that one must never be ashamed of what they are or where they come from. Embracing it whole- heartedly you rejuvenated hope in millions of souls who are treated as outcasts. From going to yule ball to spearheading the Dumbledore’s Army you explored every avenue and matured into a bold, beautiful and caring woman.

More often than not, you were headstrong and bossy yet you never failed to be kind and empathetic. You never went astray or retreated in periods of adversity, facing your fears made you grow stronger and fiercer day by day. Hermione you proved the world that girls can be whatever they aspire to be if they work for it. You encouraged so many young girls like me to never give up on their dreams and fight for their rights. For your indefatigable efforts and optimism I salute you!

To the brightest witch of her age and my role model Hermione Granger, I wish you a very happy birthday! You are more than a fictional character to me, my best friend and my kindred spirit. Within the pages of the seven harry potter books I found many friends although you still remain my all- time favorite. If I study a little extra harder, push myself to my limits or get out of my comfort zone it’s all because of whatever I learned from you. You have been my guiding light in times of dark and my angel throughout!

With love,

Harini