Only with number of instances of Covid-19 increasing at an alarming rate across the country, and Maharashtra being one of the worst-affected states, the future of all film productions in the state, particularly in Mumbai, appears to be dismal.
The Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) has released a statement to filmmakers demanding that they follow new shooting procedures, which include a requirement for a negative RT PCR testing for restricted staff and individuals engaged.
“It is most important that anyone doing shooting today or planning to do shooting in the near future takes all precautions and follows the SOPs issued by the Maharashtra government while allowing commencement of shooting during the Covid pandemic and which have been followed by producers, but in view of the severity of the situation prevailing today, it is the duty of each producer to ensure that adequate safety and security is in place to avoid any accidents,” the statement read.
While there are a lot of shootings going on, trade analyst Atul Mohan says the IMPPA has advised producers to properly observe regulations while filming. “We can’t blame them since we all started taking it a little casually,” he continues, noting that some were not following the regulations correctly when things were starting to seem normal a few months ago. “But today I think whatever film is on floors, creators are extremely cautious.”
Also, the actor’s Covid-19 diagnosis, as well as the current situation, are alleged to have hampered the timetable for Kuttey, starring Arjun Kapoor. Unchai’s filming has also been temporarily suspended, according to reports.
“No one knew what was going on at the time.” There were no SOPS in place, and no vaccinations were given. Everything was in disarray. I don’t think it will happen by 2022. The infection does not linger long, which is a plus. I doubt the delay will last more than four to five weeks. People are aware that they can work in a secure setting. He comments, “It’s not as awful as it was previously.”
