Gorakhpurs mimic artist attracts both birds and animals

Athar Ali Khan, a driver by profession in Uttar Pradeshs Gorakhpur District, possesses the ability to mimic bird and animal calls.

Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh), June 4 : Athar Ali Khan, a driver by profession in Uttar Pradesh's Gorakhpur District, possesses the ability to mimic bird and animal calls.

Athar accuracy is such that crows, dogs and buffaloes flock to him when he calls.

"I am doing for the last 15 to 16 years. I used to entertain children by creating the sound of crows. Suddenly, I noticed crows coming towards me. This encouraged me to try the sounds of other animals also. I can create the sound of buffaloes, dogs and birds," claimed Athar. "I want to work in serials and in a Bhojpuri film. My friends too are amazed at my talent and encourage me," Athar added.

Mimicry is an age-old art. The first mimicry artist might have been a caveman, who copied animal voices to keep them away. In the mythological epic Mahabharata, one of the Pandav brothers, Bhima, used this mimicry art to eliminate the Keechaka, the Commander-in-Chief of the then Panchal State for making alleged sexual advances on his wife Draupadi.

Mimicry can involve imitation of public figures, actors, actresses, singers, birds, animals, music instruments, vehicles and the telephone.

Comedian Johnny Lever and singer Sudesh Bhonsle have also acquired fame as mimicry artists.

ANI