Magic to be included in the school curriculum to tackle superstitions: M.A. Baby

Magician P.M. Mithra receives 'Indrajaala Puraskaram 2008', the Magic Academy's first ever award for best contributions in the field of magic, from the Minister of Culture, M.A. Baby (second from right)in Thiruvananthapuram. Also seen are (from left) Academy's Executive Director, Gopinath Muthukad, Secretary, Krishnapillai Foundation, Dr. Ezhumattur Rajaraja Varma, Patron of the Academy, O.N.V. Kurup and Director of the Academy, magician Chandrasenan Mithirmala.

Thiruvananthapuram: Education Minister, M.A. Baby has told that he was determined to include magic as part of the syllabus in schools. He told that even though he was unbothered of the possible criticism to boldly do this with the major aim of dismantling superstitions. "New generations should be free of misconceptions. Our generations should no longer fall prey to any God men who pretend to have some supernatural abilities", Mr. Baby added. The Minister was talking after presenting ‘Indrajaala Puraskaaram’, the first award instituted by the Magic Academy for gross contributions in magic, to magician P.M. Mithra. The Minister also told that he has already held discussions with Gopinath Muthukad regarding the inclusion of magic shows as a demonstration item during school youth festivals.

During his presidential address, the Academy’s patron, poet O.N.V. Kurup has praised Mr. Muthukad’s endeavour of admiring one of his counterparts, even as crab nature was a curse among all fields of life. Mr. Kurup's suggestin to give more recognition from the Cultural ministry to the art of magic, was readily accepted by the Minister.

Mithra gives award money for a noble cause



During his reply speech, Mr. Mithra dedicated his achievement to his parents who had helped him during the past and to his wife Ansa for her supports now. In an admirable gesture, he handed over the entire cash award of Rs.10000 to the Cultural Minister, as a donation for the Bumper Lottery promoted by the Cultural Ministry for the welfare of artistes in the State.

An enthralling performance by Magic Academy's Director, magician R. Raja Moorhty.

Secretary, Krishna Pillai Foundation, Dr. Ezhumattur Raja Raja Varma offered felicitations. Following the function a magic show by the Academy’s Director, R. Raja Moorthy became an enthralling experience. Earlier Mr. Muthukad welcomed the guests and magician Chandrasenan Mithirmala tendered vote of thanks.