Interview with Anand Jadugar

Interview with Anand Jadugar Indian Magician Jadugar Anand is in the news once again. The New India Press has coverage of his most recent set of shows in Shimoga. In addition to the magic he's successfully brought to thousands in and out of India, Mr. Anand hopes to bring attention to the plight of magicians within the country. Mr. Anand told reporters, "India stands at ninth place in the world ranking in Magic! Yet, the government had not given any recognition to this art. Magic too is an art. But, Government has not identified and encouraged it, as done to music, dance or drama." Mr. Anand is the president of the All India Association of Magicians. His organization boasts 16,000 members and yet believes its numbers have not been properly recognized by the Indian government. "Only thing government had done for us is it has reduced the entertainment tax, We do not have extraordinary demands. Give same facilities to us as given to other arts," Mr. Anand said. Faithful readers of Quinlan's Inside Magic will recall Mr. Anand's efforts in the past few years to not only bring Magic to the Government's attention but to improve society's view of Magic as a profession. Mr. Anand observed, "There is a invisible screen between society and magic. No parent will allow his or her children to pursue a career in magic." The trade association is in the process of starting their Academy of Magic at Jaipur and if the Indian Government will provide assistance, they hope to build a second Academy in Bangalore. How bad is it for magicians in India? Mr. Anand told the New India Press he has seen "many magicians who died of hunger." The All India Association provides medical and other support to members to help combat this life-and-death struggle. Mr. Anand pointed to France's use of Rober Houdin's skills to arrest an impending revolution in Algeria. His message: it worked for France because they appreciated the power of the art form and encouraged its development. Magician Anand has a post-graduate degree in English and his son received his MBA and still performs with the show. Thus far, Mr. Anand has put on about 450 shows in Kamataka plus another 2,000 shows in Southern India. He intends to continue his push for Government support for Magic and magicians as he continues his tour.