P.C. Sorcar Jr and wife Jayasree (in green) flanked by daughters Maneka (left), Moubani and Mumtaz (extreme right) at the launch of Prodiper Panchali at Starmark, South City Mall. Picture by Arnab Mondal

The book — published by Patra Bharati and priced at Rs 200 — is a compilation of the magician’s experiences and memories over the years.

“The accounts will make you see the world from a magician’s eyes. Dad narrates some personal experiences where he had come across magic behind the scenes,” said Sorcar’s eldest daughter and magician, Maneka.

His other daughters, actresses Moubani and Mumtaz, shared with the audience Sorcar’s penchant for writing. “I have seen dad write since my childhood. The more he concentrates, the smaller his handwriting gets,” laughed Moubani. She added how Sorcar’s language and storytelling have a universal flavour. “Dad used to write us letters that were so beautiful that they can make for a separate book,” she said.

Mumtaz thanked her dad for inspiring her to read Bengali literature. “He also egged me on to write. I would want to write like my father one day,” said the youngest member of the Sorcar household.

The chief guest of the evening was the author’s favourite writer, Samaresh Majumdar. “We are all scared of our wives. But he (Sorcar) cuts his on stage,” joked Majumdar amid ripples of laughter. Another guest, funnyman Mir, went a step further, wanting to know how and demanded why the book did not have tips on that.

Enjoying the ribbing and leg-pulling, Sorcar shared some anecdotes with the audience. He mentioned his wife Jayasree as a major source of inspiration.

“This book is an effort to find myself and be myself. I was surprised when my writings were appreciated and Tridib Chatterjee (of Patra Bharati) wanted to publish them in the form of a book,” said Sorcar.

He added that in this world of increased negativity, he has continued to make people laugh and spread positivity. “I plan to create an illusion that will make people forget their worries and unhappiness for a while. My next book will be based on that,” revealed the magician after the launch.