"Magic can bring significant physical, mental, and psychological changes in the lives of the differently abled, as well as their families," says Gopinath Muthukad, a magician on a mission. Inspired by this belief, he founded the Different Art Centre at the Magic Academy in Poojapura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, which now houses over 200 individuals along with their families.

During his visit to Raipur, as part of his ‘Inclusive India’ awareness program for the differently abled, Muthukad shared insights into his national tour, which began on October 6th (World Cerebral Palsy Day) in Kanyakumari. This tour will cover 40 major destinations, including Kashmir, and will conclude on December 3rd (International Day of Persons with Disabilities) with an event in New Delhi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend.

Muthukad, who has been practicing magic for over 45 years, started his journey at the age of seven. The pivotal moment that shifted his focus from magic to social service occurred five years ago during a magic show for more than 10,000 victims of Endosulfan poisoning in Kasaragod district, Kerala. Many of these victims were differently abled. Watching them, Muthukad wondered why these children couldn’t be taught magic. He believed that performing magic could bring a smile to their families' faces, and that was when his mission truly began.

"I approached the Government of Kerala with the idea of teaching magic to differently abled children. Initially, around 20 children were enrolled, with no expectation of the profound impact it would have on their lives. Today, many of these children are employed and earning salaries as we continue to witness dramatic changes in their development," he shared.

This success laid the foundation for the Different Art Centre at the Magic Academy in Thiruvananthapuram, where over 200 individuals are now engaged in various art forms, including magic, music, painting, theater, and more.

Muthukad also highlighted how professors from Japan and other countries have recognized the uniqueness of using magic as a healing process for the differently abled—a practice being pioneered in India. These experts have confirmed the effectiveness of magic in improving the lives of children with cerebral palsy, as evidenced by remarkable changes in one such child.

Muthukad emphasized that the current awareness campaign focuses on accessibility, employability, and holistic support for differently abled individuals across India. He noted that while efforts to improve accessibility have begun, they remain minimal. In contrast, countries abroad offer full access and training to differently abled individuals from an early age. The ‘Inclusive India’ tour, backed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, aims to address these issues with the support of various NGOs and organizations, though without financial backing from the government.

"Even if we can spark change in just one person during this tour, it will be a success," Muthukad stated.

This is Muthukad's fifth nationwide tour. His previous ones include the National Integration tour (2002), Gandhi Yatra (2005), and a recent journey under the ‘Inclusive India’ initiative.

Discussing the nature of magic, Muthukad explained, "Magic is an art that combines sciences like physics, chemistry, mentalism, and psychology to create illusions. While no one can truly read another person’s mind, through various techniques, it's possible to influence it."

Regarding so-called 'miracles' by self-proclaimed saints, he added, "No one possesses supernatural powers. What they claim is simply a part of magic. Spirituality, on the other hand, is entirely different and should not be conflated with magic."

Addressing a recent controversy, Muthukad revealed that the government had allocated land in Kasaragod for a center similar to the one in Thiruvananthapuram. Industrialist Yusuf Ali generously donated Rs 100 crore and pledged to contribute Rs 1 crore annually. Despite a smear campaign launched on social media, Ali remained committed to the project, and the false allegations quickly faded.