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Image Courtesy: CBR
Draco Malfoy, best known as one of the most recognisable villains from the 'Harry Potter' series, has taken on a surprising new role in China as an unofficial Lunar New Year mascot for the Year of the Horse.
Draco Malfoy And Lunar New Year Connection
The trend comes from a playful language twist. In Mandarin, Malfoy's name is written as "ma er fu." The first word means "horse," while the last translates to "fortune" or "blessing," two symbols strongly linked to Lunar New Year traditions. When combined, his name can be read as horse fortune, giving the character an unexpectedly lucky meaning for the year ahead.
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Image Courtesy: People
This clever wordplay has ignited a wave of creativity across Chinese social media. Fans have been sharing memes, illustrations, festive decorations, and themed merchandise featuring Draco Malfoy. Images of a young Malfoy, portrayed by actor Tom Felton, smiling from bright red New Year posters or riding cartoon horses have popped up everywhere, from home appliances and office desks to shopping malls.
Tom Felton has clearly noticed the buzz. The 38-year-old actor recently shared a photo on his Instagram story showing his face displayed on a red banner inside a Chinese mall. The banner featured a phrase in Mandarin that promoted luck, prosperity, and success.
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Image Courtesy: CBR
The Malfoy craze arrives as millions of people across China get ready for the Lunar New Year celebrations later this month. The enduring popularity of the 'Harry Potter' series in the country has helped fuel the moment. Since the Chinese editions of the books were first released in 2000, around 200 million copies have been sold nationwide.
Adding to the excitement, Warner Bros. Discovery announced last year that a massive Harry Potter studio tour is in development in Shanghai. The attraction, which will be larger than similar tours in London and Tokyo, is expected to open in 2027 and will be the first of its kind in China.
