Andhra Pradesh - Vijayawada   

Move to make magicians agents of social change

VIJAYAWADA: Magic is a captivating art that casts a spell and causes complete submission of spectators.

If turned into an effective tool to spread social awareness, the enchanting skill can generate instant and profound result.

The Atheist Centre in the city has grasped this mantra and the organisation now plans to engage magicians across the State to ward off superstition and bring people closer to science.

As part of its plan, the Atheist Centre will host a mega workshop in August inviting participation of magicians of the State.

“We will urge them to blend entertainment with education. Ancient traditions are rooted in Indian mindset. People, especially in rural pockets, give in easily to the perceived supernatural elements involved in the trickery of frauds. A large part of this exploitation is done in the name of religion, a common weakness of an Indian household,” says G. Vijayam, Executive Director of the Atheist Centre.

The workshop will bring at least 100 magicians from different parts of the State.

The organisation is also talking to other like-minded NGOs and medical professionals to join hands in attempt to alleviate human suffering.

“The art of magic leaves a profound impact on the mind. It should not be reduced to mere money-spinning mode but extended to dispel darkness and spread the light of knowledge,” Mr. Vijayam emphasises.

Citing cases of self-styled religious gurus duping the gullible, he says the common tricks of making milk disappear from a bowl placed in front of a deity’s statue or bringing flames from a hand kerchief come in handy for the conmen to take public for a ride.

“We want people to move away from black magic and experience the magic of education. Magicians, viewed as persons blessed with supernatural powers, can effectively unmask these crooks,” he says.

The organisation is keen on providing skills and techniques that will liberate the gullible from the barriers that hold them back.

“Once they are rid of the fear factor, the self-imposed blocks will automatically disappear.”

By imparting proper directions, it intends to convert magicians into agents of social change that will prompt the masses to find out the ‘where’, ‘how’ and ‘why’ of every dimension, thus pushing them closer to science.

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