How does Salman Rushdie present magic realism in his novels, especially in Midnight's Children?

Let us begin by reminding ourselves what a definition of
magic realism actually is before going on to examine this excellent postcolonial
classic. Magic realism is a literary style that combines incredible events with
realistic details and presents them in a tone that seems to suggest credibility. This
interlacing of fantastical events with the mundane was pioneered in Latin America.
Generally, magic realism blends real and fantastic, incorporating magic, myth and
imagination into its genre, seeking to redefine what constitutes
reality.

Now, having given ourselves a working definition
of the term, let us now examine Midnight's Children. It is clear
that Rushdie incorporates "real" and "unreal" elements, drawing on mythology, and, some
critics argue, "remythologising" India in the process. We can see this is evident from
the beginning of the novel, which focuses on the Independence of India. However,
immediately, this very real and political event is juxtaposed with the midnight's
children, who are gifted with magical powers.

This is what
makes this novel so attractive and such a gripping read. Rushdie seems to offer comment
on real political events but through flights of fantasy that seem to draw on various
myths and legend. Equally, you might want to consider the role of the central
protagonist, Saleem, who is presented in such a way as to undermine his credibility. He
is unattractive and foolish, and yet he is the central way in which Rushdie offers
serious political commentary on the postcolonial nature of India. Again and again, the
absurd and ludicrous is matched with the deathly serioius.