Image Source : The New Indian Express
In a captivating conversation with Wknd, Suhani Shah—India’s most celebrated mentalist—revealed the philosophy behind her craft: magic is not mystical, it’s learned. Fresh off her historic win at the 2025 FISM World Championship of Magic in Torino, Italy, Shah shared insights into her journey, her mission to challenge blind faith, and her belief that magic is rooted in psychology, storytelling, and skill.
This newsletter dives into her remarkable rise, her recent global recognition, and the deeper message she hopes to convey through her art.
Key Takeaways From The Weekend Interview
1. Suhani Shah was recently awarded Best Magic Creator at FISM 2025, becoming the first Indian to win this prestigious title
2. She emphasizes that magic is a learned skill, not a supernatural gift
3. Her performances blend mentalism, behavioral science, and narrative psychology
4. She uses her art to challenge blind faith and encourage critical thinking
5. Her journey began at age seven, supported by a family of magicians in Ahmedabad
6. She has performed over 5,000 shows globally and runs a hypnotherapy clinic in Goa
The FISM 2025 Triumph
Held from July 14–19 in Torino, the FISM World Championship of Magic is often dubbed the “Olympics of Magic.” This year, the event introduced a new category for online content creators, recognizing the growing influence of digital magic. Suhani Shah outshone competitors from the UK, US, Australia, and Dubai to win the Best Magic Creator award.
Her viral performances—including unlocking a presenter’s iPhone passcode live on Australian TV—have captivated millions. With over 4.5 million YouTube subscribers, Shah’s digital reach played a pivotal role in her win.
A Journey Rooted In Curiosity
Suhani’s fascination with magic began at age six, watching a magician on TV make money disappear and reappear inside an apple. That moment sparked a lifelong pursuit. With her parents’ support, she left formal schooling after Class 1 and began touring India as a child magician.
She trained under Kalpesh and Saloni Joshi, a family of magicians near Ahmedabad, who taught her sleight of hand, costume cues, and team coordination. Her early performances were attended by dignitaries, including then-Gujarat Chief Minister Shankersinh Vaghela.
From Illusionist To Mentalist
Over time, Suhani transitioned from traditional illusions to mentalism—a form of magic that relies on psychological manipulation, suggestion, and audience interaction. Her shows now focus on reading minds, predicting behavior, and revealing hidden truths.
She often guesses people’s crushes, phone passcodes, and personal secrets—not through supernatural means, but through observation and inference. Her goal is to make audiences question what they perceive and believe.
Breaking Barriers And Building Bridges
As a woman in a male-dominated field, Suhani’s success is a beacon for aspiring female performers. Her win at FISM is not just a personal milestone but a cultural breakthrough, placing India firmly on the global magic map.
She continues to challenge stereotypes, blending science and art to create experiences that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. Her performances are designed to provoke introspection and dismantle blind faith.
What’s Next For Suhani Shah?
Beyond stage shows and digital content, Suhani runs a hypnotherapy clinic in Goa, helping people overcome anxiety, addiction, and trauma. She sees magic not just as entertainment but as a tool for healing and transformation.
Her future plans include expanding her YouTube channel, collaborating with global artists, and mentoring young magicians. She remains committed to using her platform to promote critical thinking and emotional awareness.
Conclusion: Magic With Meaning
Suhani Shah’s story is a testament to the power of passion, discipline, and belief. Her journey from a curious child in Ahmedabad to a world-renowned mentalist is not just magical—it’s deeply human. By redefining magic as a learned skill, she invites us all to look beyond illusions and embrace the wonder of understanding.
Sources: Hindustan Times, MSN, Global Education News, Edunovations, Economic Times
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