Malaysia’s David Copperfield

Words by V.Sivaji

Master illusionist Mahdi Moudini marked another milestone in his illustrious career when he was awarded the sixth Merlin Awards as “Magician of the Year 2017” in a ceremony at the Eastin Hotel in Petaling Jaya.

The Iranian-born performer is actually the third generation of talented illusionists following the footsteps of his father and grandfather.

This prestigious award from the International Magicians Society (IMS) is given to Mahdi for many reasons, one of which is for his contributions promoting Malaysia all these years.

“I am so blessed to be awarded this prestigious title which goes a long way to recognize my work and sacrifice.

“Now, even both my daughter and son are following the tradition and legacy in the family,” said Mahdi in an exclusive interview to where2 Travel & Lifestyle magazine.

Mahdi has set up base in Kuala Lumpur since the late 1990s and has travelled the length and breadth of the country entertaining thousands of guests from all walks of life.

He has also been invited to several stints overseas in Thailand, Singapore and Europe to showcase his talents.

His first Merlin award was for “Best Iranian Stage Magician 2012”. the second was for “Most Extreme Magician 2013”, the third was for “Best Illusionist 2014”, fourth was for “Best Show Producer 2015″ and fifth for “Celebrity Magician of the year 2016”.

On top of this, he was awarded the “Doctor of Magic Degree” and chosen to be the president of the International Magicians Society for Malaysia.

“He is an extremely gifted magician and is very disciplined. His hands are fast, his tricks are original and he has very good showmanship,” said Tony Hassini, the founder of the 37,000 strong International Magicians Society founded in 1968 and listed in the Guinness World Records as The World’s Largest Magic Society.

Apart from the six-time Merlin awards, Mahdi has also won the “Illusionist Extraordinaire of The Year 2016” by McMillan Woods Global Awards and “Malaysia Most Impactful Celebrity 2016” by MMIA, PIEO and Asia Success Inc.

On the local circuit, he has performed in major corporate, multi-national firms and hotels all over the country.

“I will strive to attain more international recognitions in the pursuit of excellence in the industry for the entertainment of the people.

“My work towards this never ends as I am all the time thinking, preparing and practising new acts and shows to be introduced.

The 38-year-old magician Mahdi is indeed Malaysia’s answer to David Copperfield. He studied under the tutelage of his grandfather Ibrahim Moudini and his father Esmaeil Moudini who were both leading magicians.

His largest hits were under the name of “Singapore biggest ever lion dance 2016 with extraordinary magician of the year Mahdi Moudini”, “Most Famous Magician of All Time in Malaysia” and “Insane Quick Change Illusions on the road” on YouTube.