By E V Murli :
RAIPUR
In an initiative to promote social inclusion, renowned magician and founder of Magic Planet, Gopinath Muthukad reached Chhattisgarh for a performance.
Muthukad, known for his unique brand of ‘Magic with a Mission,’ has spent decades using magic as a medium to transmit powerful messages and foster innovative thinking. His latest endeavor, part of the Inclusive India travel campaign, aims to raise awareness about the importance of integrating the differently abled community into mainstream society.
This campaign, which began on October 6, World Cerebral Palsy Day, in Kanyakumari, will culminate on December 3, World Disability Day. Organised in collaboration with the Different Art Centre (DAC) and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities under the Union Government’s Department of Social Justice, the campaign has seen Muthukad perform in multiple states across the country.
During his visit to Chhattisgarh, Muthukad shared his insights and goals with ‘The Hitavada’, emphasizing his commitment to making society more inclusive for the differently abled.
“My aim is to make the differently abled an inclusive part of society,” he explained. “There are social, physical, and mental challenges for them in creating a place for themselves. My work and this campaign seek to remove these obstacles and integrate them fully into the social world.”
As a part of the campaign, Muthukad and his team
will perform in 49 locations,
including regional centers, universities, and other public spaces. The journey has taken them through Lakshadweep, Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh, with their next stop being Odisha. Reflecting on the response so far, Muthukad shared, “We’ve been receiving a positive response. Through the magic and visuals, we have been able to communicate the message effectively.”
This Inclusive India campaign is Muthukad’s fifth Bharat Yatra. Each of his yatras has addressed significant social issues, using magic as a powerful tool to create awareness and bring people together.
“During my yatras, my effort has been to integrate various cultures, cuisines, and traditions through the magical wand, sparking interest and awareness about important issues,” he said.
With over 45 years of experience in the world of magic, Muthukad continues to leverage the art’s captivating power to spread his message. His performances are not only about entertainment; they serve as a vehicle for social change. Muthukad is also a motivational speaker, and his speeches have inspired countless individuals, especially young minds. “If I can make a difference in even one person’s life, that would be my greatest achievement,” he said. Gopinath Muthukad’s ongoing campaign showcases the transformative power of art in promoting inclusivity and understanding, captivating audiences with each magical performance.