Get-together of street magicians planned in city

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A rare get-together of street magicians from across the country and their ‘modern’ counterparts is planned in the capital city as part of ‘India Jaal,’ a joint initiative of the State Tourism Department and Magic Academy, Thiruvananthapuram. Some of the oldest and best known magic tricks - the ‘Great Indian Rope Trick,’ ‘Indian Basket’ and ‘The Green Mango Tree’ included - will be performed on the occasion. And the biggest attraction of all - entry is free. ‘India Jaal’ is planned across three venues from August 13 to August 15. The organisers are also planning to bring Darshwood, a magician from Louiseville, US, to add an international flavour to the event. ‘India Jaal’ will be staged at the Vyloppilli Samskrithi Bhavan, St Joseph’s School Auditorium and the AKG Memorial Hall.‘’The chief objective of the event is to lend a helping hand to street magicians and ensure they get due recognition. ‘India Jaal’ will provide an opportunity to identify such magicians,’’ the organisers said. ‘India Jaal’ is being organised also as part of a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative of the Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSR) and the State Bank of Travancore. Tourism Minister will inaugurate ‘Ethnic Prelude,’ the first day’s event, at the Vyloppilli Samskrithi Bhavan at 4 pm. Deputy Speaker N Shakthan will preside. Street magicians from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Kerala will be honoured on the occasion. The function will be followed by a thrilling magic show. Poet O N V Kurup will inaugurate the National Magic Carnival at the AKG Hall at 6 p.m.  A magic class by Darshwood, magic contests and seminars and match between the street magicians and the ‘modernists’ are the highlights of the day. Chief Minister Oommen Chandy will inaugurate the valedictory ceremony at the AKG Hall at 6 pm. Darshwood will join magician Raja Moorthy for a Gala Magic Show.