Film and TV shoots continue with strict COVID-19 protocols, say producers

With the COVID-19 cases rising again in the country and many states introducing curfews, it looks like the entertainment industry will have to fight the battle again. Earlier, when the first and second nationwide lockdowns were introduced, many artists and crew members had suffered job losses, pay cuts and financial difficulties. But fortunately, there has not been any hindrance in shooting as of now and producers are thankful that they are able to continue work as there have not been any changes in the SOPs for film and TV production. 

Speaking to ETimes, Nitin Ahuja, CEO of Film Producers Guild said that there has been no change in the SOPs yet and they are following a stringent protocol for each department and step involved in the production. "Moreover, thanks to the extensive vaccination drives carried out by the Guild and many of our members, there are high levels of vaccine adoption in the industry. However, we are closely monitoring the situation and will amend our guidelines accordingly should the need arise,” he further said. 

Some production houses have upped the game with constant handwashing and sanitising procedures. Ramesh Taurani, who is producing the film Merry Christmas with Katrina Kaif in the lead, said that the sets are being sanitised every hour and the cast and crew are sanitising their hands in between the shots. Masks are mandatory too as they return to shoot. 

During the previous lockdown, junior artists and dancers were the ones who faced the worst wrath of the pandemic. Since there has been no change in the SOPs as of yet, Zahid Shaikh of the Cine Dancers Association told the portal that they are continuing the work as usual as there have been no instructions on reducing the number of background dancers. Producers have, however, been instructed to hire only those workers who are fully vaccinated. TV producer and actor JD Majethia is confident that the industry will sail through this period as well. "We need to support the government in keeping our state safe and keep entertaining audiences to help reduce their stress and keep their mental health stronger,” he said.  

Despite several measures being followed on the sets, many celebrities have tested positive and while some disclosed the news through their respective social media handles, some have reportedly chosen to zip their lips. Recently, Ekta Kapoor has tested COVID-19 positive and her colleagues and fans are wishing her well all over the internet.