Companion

Character Role Analysis

Harish

Even though they're fairly far apart developmentally (Harish is about eight, Lakshmi is thirteen when she meets him), these two characters develop a close bond throughout the novel. Harish becomes Lakshmi's friend because he has what she desires: freedom and the chance to go to school. Harish's kindness shows Lakshmi that life in the brothel, though awful in some ways, may not be the end of her dreams. And even though he has to leave Happiness House, this lesson is one of the most important ones that Lakshmi learns.