IT News
Mumbai, June 7:
As a sequel to Maharashtra Government’s decision not to allow the artists above the age of 65, to participate in the shooting of film and TV serials, as a precaution against COVID-19, many senior artists, including megastar Amitabh Bachchan are in a fix, since the decision will adversely affect their career and will also stall many projects.
The Maharashtra Government on May 31 permitted the media fraternity to resume shooting of films, advertisements, TV and web shows with immediate effect. However according to the new guidelines, no person above the age of 65, pregnant women can come on the set. It is necessary to have doctors, nurses and ambulances on every film set to treat any suspected/ corona positive patient.
Besides no one is allowed to say hello by shaking hands, kissing or hugging on the set. At the same time, heavy make-up should be avoided. The sets should be sanitised. Not more than 5 people can stay in a tent at one time and shooting the scenes like marriages in movies or serials is forbidden. An elaborate dance scene cannot be shot. Apart from this, everyone has to strictly follow social distancing.
With these guidelines many artists above 65 years, who are still active in the industry will be rendered jobless. The session 12 of the “Kaun Banega Crorepati”, a quiz show, hosted by Amitabh Bachchan was slated to start shortly. However now under these new guidelines, it is doubtful whether or not Amitabh Bachchan, who is 78 years old, will be able to host the show. Besides this Bachchan is also involved in a sizable number of ad films and feature films.
The Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) and other bodies have urged Thackeray to modify the guidelines. They have also shared the guidelines issued by the Karnataka Government which they find more practicable.
