Mentalist Suhani Shah becomes first Indian to win ‘Oscars for Magicians’

At the Fédération Internationale des Sociétés Magiques (FISM) 2025 World Championship in Turin, Italy, mentalist Suhani Shah achieved a historic first by becoming the first Indian to win the coveted "Best Magic Creator" title. FISM is the most prestigious event in the world of magic, frequently referred to as the "Oscars for magicians."

Shah, who competed in the recently created Digital Magic category, distinguished herself by skillfully fusing human psychology, mentalism, and gripping narrative, all of which were adapted for online viewers.

She brought a new perspective to magic showing how it is not about smoke and mirrors anymore but more about presence, precision and psychology. She outperformed international competitors like Jack Rhodes (UK), Jason Ladanye (US), and Mohammed Imani (Dubai) with her digital performances, which were viewed by millions on YouTube and Instagram.

Born in Udaipur, Rajasthan, Shah began performing magic at the age of seven, with her first stage show held in front of the then Chief Minister of Gujarat. She defied expectations by quitting school early to focus on her career, which led to her becoming a hypnotherapist and author in addition to a performer.

Her FISM win is a significant turning point for Indian magic and women in performance art, and it also places India on the winner's list for the first time. Following the event, Shah said, "This victory isn't just for me; it's for every young girl who has ever been told magic isn't for her."

With Dynamo and Chris Ramsay among the panel's judges, Suhani Shah's win suggests that digital magic is becoming more and more popular throughout the world and that India is becoming a more significant force in the global creative arts.