Satish Kaushik shared this photo. (Image courtesy: satishkaushik2178)
Strong points
- Amitabh Bachchan took over the set of Kaun Banega Crorepati 12
- Akshay Kumar shoots Bell Bottom in London
- Many TV shows have also resumed filming
New Delhi:
The spectacle must continue, even in these dire times. The unlocking across the country has meant a return to work for several sectors, including the film and television industry. COVID-19 pandemic halted production of several projects – also put on hold certain films ready to be released and force others on OTT platforms. The film and television fraternity is now returning to the set and must adapt to a whole new set of processes and protocols. In the words of actor Satish Kaushik, the sets now look like something out of a “sci-fi movie” – life mimicking art in an ironic twist of fate.
There are a number of dystopian blockbusters to compare current working conditions with, documented on social media by actors like Amitabh Bachchan. Here’s a look at the new standard for movie and TV stars.
Amitabh Bachchan, currently busy filming the next season of Kaun Banega Crorepati, shared a photo of the “sea of blue” on the set – PPE kits and masks are required.
Kareena Kapoor, who is pregnant, has also returned to work. She shared a photo of her vanity with a team of makeup artists giving the finishing touches to her look. “Another day, another shoot … my warriors,” she captioned the post and added the hashtag “#MyNewNormal”. Kareena’s next film is Laal Singh Chaddha and she also signed up for several endorsements.
Akshay Kumar, who films The lower end of the bell with Lara Dutta and Huma Qureshi in London, shared the edited “lights, camera, action” instruction in a video. Lara Dutta posted hair and makeup, as did actor Satish Kaushik, who wrote: “Surrounded by makeup and hairdresser wearing PPE kits, it looks like a pic from a sci-fi movie.”
For Shilpa Shetty, IIt was “surreal” to be back at work while Preity Zinta experienced “mixed emotions” when she resumed filming after being home for six months.
The best way to make peace with any situation is to gradually adapt to the changes. So after a 5 month hiatus I shot for something special, an act for Ganesh Chaturthi as a humble dedication to all of our front line warriors. I wanted to do something special in my own way for those who work tirelessly to help curb the situation and restore normalcy with their best foot forward. Thus, all the necessary precautions were taken and all guidelines followed by the small team that made this happen. But, I have to say, I can’t even begin to express how overwhelming it was to come back to it all – it was surreal. I sincerely hope and pray that our Vighnaharta, Lord Ganesh, eliminates all the negativity, fear and toxicity that surrounds us. Take care of yourself and your loved ones. We owe it to all the brave warriors, who put their lives online for us. @cineyug @starplus. . . . . #NewNew #FrontlineWarriors #special #BTS #SocialDistancing #gratitude #blessed #StarParivaarGaneshotsav
A large number of TV shows such as Naagin 4, Pavitra Bhagya, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, Yeh Jaadu Hai Jinn Ka, Kundali Bhagya, Kumkum Bhagya, Bhakarwadi, RadhKrishn, Santoshi Maa and Bhabhi Ji Ghar By Hai resumed filming adjusting to the new normal after lockdown. Among the TV celebrities who shared photos of their sets are Parth Samthaan, Nia Sharma, Rashami Desai and many more.
In May, the government of Maharashtra authorized the resumption of filming of films and television shows while issuing a list of guidelines to be followed during filming activities. The guidelines require cast and crew to regularly sanitize their hands, wear masks and gloves, and follow social distancing standards.
