International Merlin Award for Magician Gopinath Muthukad

The world’s largest magician’s organisation, the International Magicians Society (IMS) of USA, has selected noted illusionist and stunt performer Gopinath Muthukad of Kerala for this year’s prestigious International Merlin Award. Today the famous illusionist and the Board of Director of IMS, Franz Harary formally declared the award in the press conference that held at Delhi. The Merlin Award to magic is what Oscar is to cinema.

The Jury of IMS has selected Mr. Muthukad for their paramount recognition in recognition of the inimitable contributions the magician has made for the over-a development and popularization of magical art and science during his 35 years of professional career. These include setting up of Asia’s first Magic Academy in Kerala in 1996; organizing of a series of international magic conventions titled, Vismayam in 1996, 2000, 2006 and 2008; innovation brought to magical demonstrations; re-enactments of several Houdini stunts and magical sensitization held all over India in 2002, 2005, 2007 and 2010 for fostering social values and Gandhian philosophies. Muthukad employs magic as a medium to convey his messages to society. He is also noted for his staunch crusades against social evils of tobacco, alcohol and drug abuse. Mr. Muthukad has performed in 25 countries.

The society was also impressed by the magician’s endeavours that could obtain praise even from the President and Prime Ministers of India.

The Award will be presented by the World President of the IMS, Tony Hassini on 23rd of June in New Delhi at a ceremony to be organised under the aegis of Mazma, a society for the uplift of traditional magic and performing arts in India.

Magicians from all over India will witness the International Merlin Award Ceremony in Delhi, followed by performances, showcasing Traditional Magic of India by Indian Traditional Street Magicians of society MAZMA.

This award adds Muthukad to the lineage of world renowned Magicians Franz Harary, David Copperfield, Sigfried and Roy, Penn and Teller, Criss Angel – all previous winners of the title. Following P.C. Sorcar Jr. of West Bengal, he is the second Indian magician to receive this coveted award.

The Award comprises of a captivating statuette designed in 1968 by Carol Michaud.