As is evidenced by the successes of David Copperfield and David Blaine – and in the enduring legacy of the great Harry Houdini – illusionists, mentalists and magicians have long been fascinating commodities in our society. Is it any wonder that many early radio serials provided their heroes with advanced knowledge of mysticism and the powers that come with it?

Chandu The Magician is one such example. One of the most popular and long-running superhero radio shows, Chandu the Magician chronicles the exploits of American secret agent Frank Chandler. How did he foil criminals at large? By using the ancient powers of a Hindu yogi, of course. In a jewel-bedecked turban, he’d gaze into a crystal ball and find the whereabouts of sundry villains, including criminal mastermind Roxor.

The show lasted from 1932 to 1950 and left fans riveted throughout its run. In 1932, a film based on the series starred Edmund Lowe as Chandu and Bela Legosi as Roxor. Two years later, The Return of Chandu hit movie houses, with Bela Legosi as Chandu and no Roxor at all.