The film follows Ishamudin Khan, a traditional Indian street magician or Masait from the Madari community, and examines the socio-cultural and political ignominy he faces, especially with the passing of the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act (1959), that lists under its definition of begging:

Soliciting or receiving alms, in a public place whether or not under any pretence such as singing, dancing, fortune telling, performing or offering any article for sale.

The 1959 Act not only criminalizes the Madari’s performance under the “pretence” of ‘begging’, but also allows for the unwarranted arrest, by police or other authorized personnel, of any individual found violating its terms. Under these legal strictures, Masait culture and the practice of traditional magic faces increasing risk of becoming a largely stigmatized historical memory, especially with existing practitioners of the art growing disheartened with the lack of legitimate performance spaces.

Ishamudin Khan - ishamudin@gmail.com