Continuing our series of “The Good, The Bad and the… You Decide” (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3) we are pleased to share this performance from Kuda Bux.
Born in Akhnoor (present day Jammu and Kashmir in India), Kuda Bukhsh (1905-1981) performed under a wide variety of stage names. While he did some more traditional magic and illusions and body magic demonstrations like walking on hot coals, he was probably best known for performing while blindfolded – a feat that also goes by many names.
This is the kind of blindfold we are talking about:
This is taken from one of at least three appearances he made on You Asked For It, a program which ran from 1950-1959). The format of the show was based on audience requests sent in by postcard and the producers would find someone to provide a demonstration. This included a several magical performances and escapes. The programs were often sponsored by Skippy Peanut Butter.
These short performances demonstrate remarkable showmanship and attention to detail. What is remarkable watching them more than fifty years after they were recorded is how direct they are. He is providing a demonstration of seeing while blindfolded. Most modern performers who don a blindfold are trying to convince the audience they couldn’t possibly see; the exact opposite of what you see demonstrated here. There is no claim of any ability related to mindreading or other clairvoyance. He is just seeing things as well as you or I would.
The host for these appearances is Art Baker and we believe all of them were filmed in Santa Monica, CA. So,d because many years, someone asked for it, here is Kuda Bux:
And if you are new to the Screening Room, we encourage you to take the time to search out some wonderful magic collected there.
