Protul Chandra Sorcar

Early Life and Education

Protul Chandra Sorcar was born on 23 February 1913 in Ashokpur in the Tangail district (now in Bangladesh), came from a poor middle-class family. From an early age, he was fascinated by the art of magic and received his initial training from Shri Ganapati Chakravarti.

A brilliant student, he passed the entrance examination in the first division and graduated with honours in Mathematics in 1933. Soon after, he chose to pursue magic as his full-time profession.

Rise of the “Jadu Samrat”

Protul Chandra Sorcar’s ascent to greatness as “Jadu Samrat” (Emperor of Magic) remains unparalleled in Indian magic. A self-made genius, he crafted and perfected his illusions largely through his own effort and innovation.

He transformed traditional Indian magic into “Indrajal,” a grand and uniquely Indian theatrical spectacle that blended illusion with rich cultural motifs. Under his creative direction, Indrajal became a magnificent stage art, presented with opulent costumes, elaborate sets, and dramatic lighting.

Innovation and Stage Splendour

Sorcar began his career performing in homes, clubs, carnivals, circuses, theatres, and public halls—anywhere he could gather an audience. Through constant experimentation and innovation, he developed a distinct style that set him apart from other magicians.

His performances featured spectacular stage illusions, elaborate lighting effects, and his iconic Maharaja costume complete with a plumed turban. Drawing inspiration from India’s diverse cultural heritage and folklore traditions, he elevated conjuring into a refined performing art.

He authored 20 books in Bengali, English, and Hindi, contributing significantly to the literature on magic.

Social Reform and National Spirit

At a time when women stage performers faced social stigma, Sorcar boldly included women in his troupe, helping to break entrenched social barriers.

He also supported India’s freedom movement. In 1937, he donated his earnings from performances in Japan to aid the cause of Indian independence, demonstrating his quiet patriotism.

International Fame and Recognition

Widely regarded as the greatest magician of his era, Sorcar toured extensively around the world. His enthralling performances were frequently featured on international television, captivating audiences across continents.

He received numerous prestigious awards, including the Phoenix Award (twice) in the United States, the German Goldbar, the Golden Laurel Garland Award, and the Dutch Tricks Prize. In 1964, the Government of India honoured him with the Padma Shri for his outstanding contribution to the arts.

Renowned writers in Europe chronicled his life and achievements. Arthur Leroy famously remarked in 1966 that Sorcar had built “the biggest, most stupendous illusion show of our times.” He was also a member of the societies of magicians in France, the UK, Germany, Belgium, and Japan, as well as the International Rotary Club and the Royal Asiatic Society in London.

Indrajal – A Peerless Illusion Show

Sorcar’s full-scale illusion show, “Indrajal,” had virtually no equal in terms of grandeur, variety, and splendour. His relentless dedication, creative vision, and innovative spirit helped redefine magic as a respected performing art.

Final Curtain and Commemorative Stamp

P. C. Sorcar Sr. passed away suddenly on 6 January 1971 while performing at a show in Japan—an end befitting a magician devoted to his craft until his final moment.

To honour his extraordinary contribution to magic and Indian performing arts, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp on the birth anniversary of Protul Chandra Sorcar (P. C. Sorcar Sr.), celebrating the life of the legendary “Jadu Samrat.”