Interview with Magician Tjio Varghese: “The Man of Records”
Meet Magician Tjio Varghese, a distinguished entertainer and illusionist based in Coimbatore, has crafted a mesmerizing journey into the world of magic since his childhood. Renowned as the “Man of Records,” Tjio boasts an impressive collection of over 125 world records and 400 awards, including the esteemed Merlin Award from the International Magician Society.
Can you tell us about your journey into the world of magic and how it all began?
Magician Tjio Varghese: My magical journey started in childhood, turning a fascination into a lifelong career.
What inspired you to become not just a magician but an entertainer, mentalist, and illusionist?
Magician Tjio Varghese: I believe in creating a holistic experience for my audience, adding depth to my performances.
Your aim is to spread happiness and positive thoughts. How do you incorporate this into your magical performances?
Magician Tjio Varghese: I design my shows to entertain and leave the audience with a positive and uplifting experience.
82 plus world records and 200 plus international awards! How do you approach each performance to maintain such high standards?
Magician Tjio Varghese: I approach each performance with dedication, innovation, and a commitment to delivering excellence.
You’ve performed nearly 6000 shows worldwide. Can you share a memorable moment or a favorite performance?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Every show is special, but one that stands out is when I performed in a unique location, creating magic in an unconventional setting. The audience’s reactions in such moments are priceless.
Winning the Merlin Award is a significant achievement. How has this recognition impacted your career and personal journey?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Receiving the Merlin Award is a tremendous honor. It not only validates my efforts but also opens up new opportunities and platforms to showcase my art on an international level.
With over 1500 magicians and art enthusiasts present during the award ceremony, how did it feel to be recognized among such a distinguished audience?
Magician Tjio Varghese: It was a surreal experience. Being acknowledged in front of peers and enthusiasts from the magical community added immense value to the recognition.
What does the Merlin Award symbolize for you personally and for the magic community as a whole?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Personally, it symbolizes the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. For the magic community, it reinforces the standard of excellence and the magic’s power to captivate and inspire.
You received the Merlin Award from World President Mr. Tony Hassini. How was the experience of meeting and receiving an award from such a renowned personality?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Meeting Mr. Tony Hassini was an honor in itself. Receiving the award from someone with such a deep understanding of magic added a special significance to the entire experience.
Your magical performances include various types. Is there a specific type of magic or illusion that you enjoy performing the most?
Magician Tjio Varghese: I enjoy the diversity of magic, but mentalism holds a special place for me. The psychological aspect and the connection with the audience make it a fascinating and rewarding form of magic.
Achieving success in the field of magic requires continuous innovation. How do you stay creative and bring new elements to your performances?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Innovation is key. I stay updated on the latest trends, but I also draw inspiration from everyday life. Keeping the performances fresh and surprising is crucial to maintaining audience engagement.
Your title as “Man of Records” suggests a commitment to pushing boundaries. How do you approach setting and breaking world records in magic?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Setting records involves a combination of skill, creativity, and meticulous planning. Each attempt is a unique challenge, and the thrill of breaking a record is a testament to pushing the limits of what’s possible in magic.
Apart from magic, you’ve been recognized for your service to the magician’s community and the public. How do you give back to the community, and why is it important to you?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Giving back is integral to the magic community’s growth. I mentor aspiring magicians, conduct workshops, and contribute to initiatives that promote the art. It’s crucial to ensure the art form thrives for generations to come.
You mentioned a commitment to a stress-free world. How do you believe magic contributes to reducing stress and bringing joy?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Magic provides an escape, a moment of wonder that transcends daily stresses. It allows people to experience childlike awe, even if just for a moment, offering a refreshing break from the pressures of life.
What advice would you give to aspiring magicians who look up to your achievements and wish to make a mark in the magical world?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Dedication, practice, and a genuine love for the art are essential. Embrace challenges, stay humble, and always strive for innovation. Each performance is an opportunity to grow and leave a lasting impact.
Your videos and updates are followed by many on social media. How do you use these platforms to connect with your audience and fans?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Social media allows me to share snippets of my performances, connect with fans globally, and provide behind-the-scenes glimpses. It’s a powerful tool to foster a sense of community and share the magic with a broader audience.
What role do your fans play in your journey, and how do their reactions influence your approach to magic?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Fans are the heartbeat of my journey. Their enthusiasm and reactions inspire me to keep pushing boundaries. Knowing that I can bring joy and wonder to people’s lives motivates me to continually evolve as a performer.
You received the Best Magician of the Year award in 2018 and 2019. How do you sustain excellence year after year, and what drives your continuous improvement?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Consistency and a hunger for improvement drive me. Every award is a reminder of the standards I’ve set, pushing me to surpass them with each subsequent performance. It’s a continuous journey of growth and refinement.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a magician, and how do you overcome challenges in your profession?
Magician Tjio Varghese: The most challenging aspect is maintaining the element of surprise. With evolving audience expectations, I constantly innovate and adapt my performances to ensure they remain captivating and unpredictable.
How do you handle stage nerves, and do you have any rituals or routines before going on stage?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Nerves are a part of the process. I embrace them as fuel for adrenaline. A few moments of focused breathing and visualization help me center myself before stepping onto the stage.
Your magic shows are described as unique. What elements do you prioritize to ensure each show has its own identity?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Uniqueness lies in the details. I carefully select and craft each element of a show, from the illusions to the pacing, ensuring that no two performances are alike. Personalization is key to creating a memorable experience.
As an entertainer who has performed worldwide, how do you adapt your magic to different cultures and audiences?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Cultural sensitivity is crucial. I adapt my performances to resonate with diverse audiences, incorporating universal themes and elements that can be appreciated across cultures. It’s about creating a shared experience that transcends borders.
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With a busy schedule and numerous shows, how do you balance your professional and personal life?
Magician Tjio Varghese: Balancing is challenging but essential. I prioritize time management, ensuring dedicated moments for both work and personal life. It’s about quality over quantity, both on and off the stage.
What upcoming projects or goals do you have in the world of magic, and what can your fans look forward to?
Magician Tjio Varghese: I have exciting projects in the pipeline, including new performances, collaborations, and initiatives to promote magic education. Fans can expect fresh and innovative content that pushes the boundaries of magical entertainment.
How do you keep the sense of wonder alive in your own life, considering your deep involvement in the magical arts?
Magician Tjio Varghese: I find wonder in everyday moments. Whether it’s the beauty of nature, human connections, or exploring new places, maintaining a childlike curiosity outside the realm of magic keeps the sense of wonder alive.
Your area, Kuniyamuthur in Coimbatore, must be proud of your achievements. How has your local community supported your magical journey?
Magician Tjio: The local community has been incredibly supportive. From my early days as a budding magician to receiving international recognition, the encouragement and pride from Kuniyamuthur and Coimbatore have been instrumental in my journey.
Beyond magic, what are your other interests and hobbies?
Magician Tjio: Apart from magic, I have a keen interest in exploring different forms of art, from visual arts to music. It’s a way to stay inspired and bring diverse influences into my magical performances.
Lastly, what legacy do you hope to leave in the world of magic, and how do you envision the future of magical entertainment?
Magician Tjio: I aspire to leave a legacy of innovation, inspiration, and a deep love for the art of magic. Looking ahead, I envision magical entertainment evolving with technology, embracing new forms while preserving the timeless wonder that defines the essence of magic.
