Jaipur, Aug. 17 -- Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot on Sunday called for government support to preserve the art of magic and take it to international platforms. Gehlot met leading magicians at his residence in the day even as Chittorgarh is set to host a major magicians' convention from January 26 to 28 amid efforts to revive and promote Rajasthan's centuries-old magic tradition. More than 500 magicians from across India, along with foreign performers, are expected to participate. Gehlot said magicians continue to keep the tradition alive despite financial and practical challenges. He called for magic to be recognised as an art and part of the country's cultural heritage rather than being viewed merely as entertainment. He said GST was a major concern for magicians and announced that he would write to chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma urging the state government to recommend to the Centre that magic shows be exempted from GST. Gehlot also suggested setting up a magic academy in every district to preserve traditional techniques, equipment and knowledge and train younger generations. He invited the chief minister and his cabinet to watch a magic show to understand the skill and effort involved in the art. According to magician Junior Mayavi, more than 2,000 magicians have been invited to the Chittorgarh convention, with over 500 already confirming participation. The three-day event will feature competitions among Rajasthan's magicians on the first day and performances by international magicians on the second day. No entry fee will be charged. Junior Mayavi said preparations were also underway to establish a magic academy in Jodhpur, where aspiring magicians could receive training and pursue certified courses. Organisers are also working to bring magicians from across the country under a common platform. A new federation is being planned to help performers address common issues, exchange techniques and promote the traditional art. Gehlot also recalled his family's long association with magic, saying his father, Laxman Singh Gehlot, had participated in a 'World Surprise Show' in Tokyo and travelled to Japan and Hong Kong. The former chief minister said that his family had remained connected with the art since his childhood....