Legacy of ancient magic

Assam's magic tradition, tracing its roots to ancient myths & mysticism, is inspiring magician Anuj whose passion for the art is captivating audiences of all ages, says Prasanta Mazumdar

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A vibrant tapestry of magic and mysticism-both black enand white compasses the land; Pragjyotishpura, the ancient name for the region of present-day Guwahati, is often associated with mystical tales and miracles, and even finds mention in the epic Mahabharata.

Nearby, the Mayong village is known for its folklore involving people vanishing or turning into beasts of the forest, adding to the region's mystical aura.

Over time, black magic waned, giving way to white magic used for entertainment and education. One such modern practitioner is Anuj Kumar Das (50), a sleight-of-hand artist whose shows captivate audiences without invoking the dark eldritch mystical traditions.