The Academy of Magical Sciences

The Academy of Magical Sciences promotes magic as a respected art form, dispelling superstitions. Serving as a hub for magicians, especially street magicians, it provides a decade-long shelter for discussions and solutions. The academy offers diverse courses, including a 2-month Summer Vacation Course for ages 10-15, a 6-month Junior Higher Course, and various Senior Courses. Additionally, there are Crash Courses and certificate/diploma programs approved by Kerala University. With a focus on nurturing magical skills, the academy contributes to the broader magical arts community, creating opportunities for enthusiasts to develop their talents.

Magic Planet, located at KINFRA Film and Video Park, Kazhakuttom, Thiruvananthapuram, stands as a permanent rehabilitation hub for street magicians on the brink of extinction due to a lack of platforms to showcase their unique skills. Its mission extends to not only providing a sanctuary for these artists but also to enchant the general public, including domestic tourists and foreigners, with the wonders and vast possibilities of magical art. Since its public opening on October 31, 2014, Magic Planet has evolved, commemorating its second anniversary by expanding its support to include artists from the Circus arena who face a shortage of adequate platforms. Currently, the institution sustains over 200 artists, contributing to their daily functioning and well-being.

In collaboration with the Kerala Social Security Mission (KSSM), the Magic Academy organised the "Anuyatra" free magical training camp for 23 differently-abled children, including those with Autism and Cerebral palsy. These children, selected as brand ambassadors, showcased their talents before dignitaries like the Vice President of India. Recognizing the impact, the Academy established the MPower centre at Magic Planet in Thiruvananthapuram, providing permanent employment opportunities for these children—the first of its kind globally. The CDC, Government of Kerala, evaluated the programme, noting positive effects on mental health and social development, recommending its expansion for a wider reach among specially-abled children.

The Academy of Magical Sciences, recognizing the challenges faced by creative artists who often neglect social responsibilities due to their immersive imaginative worlds, has initiated the 'Artiste Village.' This home project, situated in Kazhakuttom, Thiruvananthapuram, addresses the needs of homeless street performers and differently-abled artists. The village serves as a refuge, offering a decent life to destitute artists while ensuring their talents are shared with future generations, all without any expectations of compensation in return. This compassionate initiative by the Magic Academy aims to bridge the gap between the creative realm and the practical necessities of life for these artists.

In collaboration with the Kerala Social Security Mission, the Academy of Magical Sciences established the Different Art Centre (DAC) in Kazhakkuttom, Thiruvananthapuram. Inaugurated on November 7, 2019, this centre, following CDC recommendations, focuses on nurturing the artistic talents of 100 differently-abled children. Beyond magic, it offers training in various art forms, boosting confidence and self-awareness. A study by the Institute for Communicative and Cognitive Neurosciences (ICCONS) showed improvements in adaptive functioning and a reduction in maladaptive behaviour. Recognizing the need for educational support, the Magic Academy integrated programmes, including the "Inspira" learning centre on DAC premises. Recently, the Kerala State Department of Social Justice acknowledged DAC with the 'Best Employer' award for its commitment to promoting differently-abled employees.