Seated in his favourite car at a garage-turned-film set,Jackie Shroff talks to Prabhjot Sohal about judging India Magic Star What has brought you back to TV?Magic. Television is no more a medium of the elite,and magic has always been entertainment for the common man. Hence,is it the best way to reach out to people. I have hosted TV shows before,but this Star One talent show is my first time as judge. Passing judgment,especially on any art form,has never been my forte. Rather,Im someone who is fascinated by everything. What is your opinion about magic shows?They hold a very nostalgic place in my life. During my childhood,my father would give me money every Sunday and I would rush to Chowpatti beach to watch Charlie Jadugars show. I would crawl in through the crowd to catch a glimpse of his magic tricks. It meant the world to me then. So when I was asked to be at a show to do with magic,I instantly agreed. How do you picture yourself as a celebrity judge?I have no knowledge of the craft that goes into creating magic,and wont be able to judge the contestants on that account. For that we have the other two judges,Maya Maya SAC Vasanth and Rajat Narasimha,who are professional magicians. My job at the show is to view at magic through a common mans eye. India has always been associated with street magic. Will it retain the charm on TV?I feel television is a great platform for street magicians. Till now,magicians have been performing for a small audience. But with this show,they will be able to reach out to millions of people across India. What are you favourite TV shows?My all time favourite TV show is Karamchand. Nothing gets better than the carrot munching character. These days my busy schedule has limited my entertainment dose to the internet. But whenever I get time,I watch reality and talent shows with my family. I am also looking forward to the football World Cup. Do you feel genuine talent is discovered in TV talent shows?Absolutely. Besides the three judges who chair the panel,the audience knows what they would want to see in the future,so the selection is fair. Earlier,talented people would struggle to be recognised,but now TV reaches out itself to discover the talent. What gets better than that for the talent industry. Your son Tiger is getting ready for his launch in the movies,how are the preparations going on?Tiger is a thorough sportsman and wants to play basketball for India. Whereas I want him to become an actor. I have given him time to discover whatever he wants. Ultimately,he should not feel that I forced my decision on him.
