Seven years after J K Rowling firmly shut the doors to Hogwarts, a UK-based web developer has opened a ‘window’. Launched in mid-April, Hogwarts is Here is a fan-made website that gives Potterphiles a chance to do what they’ve always craved: study at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Wands at the ready
The pet project of 24-year-old Keith D Cardin, Hogwarts is Here has all the course curriculum mentioned in the books-from Defence against the Dark Arts and Potions to Charms and Transfiguration. With volunteer professors being mapped to each subject-studied over seven nine-week courses-students (over 60,000 already) have to complete essays, assignments and quizzes in order to pass. While Pottermore, a popular Potter-themed website, focuses more on Harry Potter and his journey at Hogwarts, Hogwarts is Here is all about the life and education of a witch or wizard.
Wizarding ways
The big question we asked fans: why would you do this when there is no reward? “This is a dream come true. I’ve always wanted to be a part of Hogwarts, to learn the subjects, and this is my chance,” says Nidheya Suresh, a 21-year old Potterphile. So is it all a game? “It is like a game but I take this very seriously because, for me, Harry Potter is very serious,” says Pooja Kumar, 15, another fan.
Details: hogwartsishere.com