The dictionary defines paradox as a logically self-contradictory statement. One example the dictionary cites is: ‘Being cruel to be kind’.  We can think of our own: ‘Be hot to be cool’. Hot it was, as one entered the new Paradox Museum, that opened to the public in Mumbai yesterday (Friday). Never mind Mumbai’s merciless October mercury, which unfortunately is no illusion, this SoBo venue is a cool new addition to the city’s experiential entertainment landscape.

The Paradox Museum is located at Fort, a stone’s throw away from Alexandra Girls High School and the Bombay Gymkhana Club, in Shreeniwas House building. The Museum houses illusionary installations and rooms. There is a QR code next to each illusory exhibit and outside the Fun Rooms, so that the visitor fully comprehends the technique and rationale behind different illusory installations. While science, art and psychology mix, it has a philosophical message overall: Just like in life, in this museum too, things may never be what they seem.