Shankar plans to open magic academy in HP

Hamirpur, June 10 (UNI) Bowled over by the majestic beauty of Shimla and Manali, renowned magician and recipient of many national and international awards and honours Samrat Shankar plans to open a magic academy in Himachal Pradesh.

Here in Hamirpur town with his troupe of 50 assistants and four truckloads of different costumes, besides musical instruments and a performing floor, Shankar said he would talk to state Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh for allotting him land for opening an academy here.

The Samrat, who has left several hundred thousand people spellbound in different parts of the world for the last 44 years, says he wants to pass on his legacy to an efficient disciple to keep it alive.

Born at Ellenabad in Sirsa district of Haryana in 1950, Shankar began his magic innings at the age of 12 under the guidance of several reputed magicians before becoming one himself years later.

Believing that magic has no limits, the Samrat has devoted his life towards developing the art, which has left many a spectators spellbound.

Besides, performing at commercial shows, the magician has performed over 13,000 charity shows of various organisations, including the Red Cross, Chief Minister's Relief Fund and other relief funds.

Shankar claims that he had helped many a disabled person overcome their disabilities with his magical powers and yoga, adding people with spinal disorders, drug and alcohol abuse, chronic pains and other disabilities have also been coming to him for help.

''My life is dedicated to giving joy and pleasure to the others and I relish it,'' he adds, promising many more years of magic before passing on his mantle to another magician.

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