Magicians still in demand, maintains Venu

In the current employment scenario, one of the job profile that seems to be in great demand is that of being a magician. Magicians Academy of India estimates the shortage of magicians in the country to be up to 3,000.

A professional magician does three to four shows a day during festivals and special occasions such as the Children's Day yesterday, birthday parties, get-togethers and school functions, the Academy says.

Magic has withstood the winds of change triggered by the advent of television channels and growing usage of internet that redefined the entertainment landscape, Academy's chief Samala Venu said, adding that demand for "live" magic shows continues to be strong.

"Magicians are continuing to be in demand and earn Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000 a month but are hurt by lack of Government support and recognition," he told.

Magic is not considered an art; magicians can't get government jobs under cultural quota, and they are not eligible for national youth awards. Not even a single magician in the country has been bestowed with Padma award, Venu claims.

There are no government scholarships and schemes on offer for magicians, who also don't figure in any cultural exchange programmes. India has an estimated 3,800 to 4,000 professional magicians, he said.

The profession is also affected to some extent by hobby magicians revealing tricks of the trade on Internet. But letting out secrets of "illusions" is hurting the business prospects of illusionists very badly as they invest a lot in such shows, Venu said.