As most of the lockdown restrictions have now been lifted and life is limping back to normalcy, uncertainty, and uneasiness still prevail among many sections of society. While many people have adapted to the new normal, there are many citizens who are still suffering due to the fury of the pandemic.
Covid-19 has hit the cultural and creative economy very badly in this winter season. Cultural activities are now slowly being resumed and the Centre has given State/UT governments the flexibility to permit a congregation of more than 100 people outside containment zones in Unlock 5 guidelines. The social gatherings and cultural activities inside containment zones are still restricted as per Union Home Ministry guidelines.
Artists and musicians have become massive victims due to the pandemic and continue to remain in dire straits. In a candid conversation, renowned playback singer Jaspinder Narula says, “Every industry has been hit due to the lockdown and we do not know when the pandemic is going to end. I have distributed ration and helped a few people. People have to bear our medical expenses and for many, it has become difficult to pay interest on bank loans. People do not have money and there is so much chaos. I have not done any online shows. Although, I have started getting booking requests with a maximum gathering of a hundred guests now.”
Many production houses have resumed their film shootings and actors are returning back to work. Actress Himika Bose who recently played a lead role in the Malayalam movie Valiyaperunnal says, “A lot of my projects have got canceled and some of them have been postponed. I am focusing only on important projects. I am following all the safety precautions and only those who have been tested negative are allowed to be part of the shootings.”
Although privileged artists have the option to perform online concerts, most artists still continue to face the wrath of the pandemic.