MUMBAI: Various stakeholders of the Indian entertainment industry have taken measures to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. Different bodies of television, directors and producers have decided to stop shooting of films, TV serials and web series from 19 March 2020 till 31 March 2020.
The decision was taken in a joint meeting of Indian Motion Pictures Producers' Association (IMPPA), Western India Film Producers' Association (WIFPA), Indian Film and Television Producers Council (IFTPC), Indian Film & Television Directors' Association (IFTDA) and Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) held on 15 March 2020.
“In view of the epidemic spread of Covid19 virus throughout the world, including India, an urgent meeting of IMPPA- WIPFA- IFTPC-IFTDA- FWICE held on 15 March 2020 unanimously decided to stop shootings of films, TV serials, web series and all other entertainment including digital formats from 19 March 2020 till 31 March 2020 as a result of health advisory, closure of all cinema halls, all sporting, educational institutes and entertainment events by the government of India which has declared a medical emergency over the Corona Virus. We appreciate and support all the steps taken by the government of India to control the virus,” said IMPPA.
The association further says, “All units shooting till the stoppage comes into force have been strictly advised to follow all precautionary and preventive measures without fail. Decision about re-starting shootings shall be taken on 30 March 2020 after considering the prevailing situation.”
TV broadcasters too are taking utmost measures to avoid gatherings on the sets.
A Zee spokesperson says, “In view of the growing concern regarding the COVID-19 outbreak, Zee TV is putting a temporary halt to on-sets for the safety of all the members of the media. Apart from on-sets, no bytes or special stories will also be allowed, unless prior committed and lined up for a particular day. This is being done as a precautionary measure and as soon as the situation improves, we shall resume onset access.”
Abhinav Khare, CEO of Asianet News Group, said that every effort has been taken to ensure that the employees are safeguarded and their health protected.
"However, being media companies, we cannot adopt the work-from-home option. There are studios and equipment. Ours is a live medium. So whatever is happening and whenever is happening, reporters have to go to the spot and report," he said.
