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This was a wonderful read, even for someone with near total ignorance of the films referenced. I loved the structure of the piece, and the skillful threading of the connection between the experience of magic and film. I gasped at “Why do we cry when we see a movie?” at the transition, when I realized what the piece was going to be about.

I learn so much about thinking about films from your writing, thank you.

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Thank you Shajith. I often worry these pieces are too diffuse. Appreciate the validation.

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Superb post, Prathyush! I haven't seen Atrangi Re yet but I loved how you've engaged with the theme and so many other aspects of magic and cinema. As someone who leans more towards movies with a purpose - not in an extractive way but just what I tend to enjoy more, even as an 'experience,' your perspective made me reflect on so many things! Thank you for this thought-provoking piece.

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Ila! Thank you for your kind words.

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The part where you have talked about Sanskrit philosophy, quoting Patil, explains my utter disgusting and distant relationship with Western philosophy. Perhaps, it is because I was introduced to Sanskrit philosophical texts very early in my life, which are, like you have written, vague, confusing and complex, that I still do not indulge in the uselessness of philosophical discourses originating from, and concerning the west.

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I envy you Aaditya. I still can't get through an Upanishad in transl without wondering if it's all just a washout.

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Shukriya sir!

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