GECs
Shooting of TV shows, digital originals & films halted from 19 March to 31 March 2020
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.
MUMBAI: Lights, camera… connection because this time, the game isn’t just about winning, it’s about who’s with you. Sony Pictures Networks India is gearing up to launch a new reality game show, Tum Ho Naa, expanding its unscripted slate with a format that promises both emotion and engagement.
The show will premiere soon on Sony Entertainment Television and stream on Sony LIV, with Rajeev Khandelwal stepping in as host. Known for his measured screen presence and selective choices, Khandelwal’s return to television adds a layer of familiarity and credibility to the upcoming format.
While specific details of the gameplay remain under wraps, the positioning suggests a reality format that leans as much on emotional resonance as it does on competition, an increasingly popular blend in Indian television, where audiences are gravitating towards content that offers both stakes and storytelling.
Khandelwal, reflecting on his return, noted that his choices have often been guided by instinct rather than convention, describing Tum Ho Naa as a project that feels “close to the heart”. His association also signals Sony’s continued focus on anchoring new formats with recognisable faces who bring both relatability and depth.
The launch comes at a time when broadcasters are doubling down on original non-fiction formats to drive appointment viewing, even as digital platforms expand parallel reach. By placing the show across both linear television and OTT, Sony appears to be aiming for a dual-audience strategy capturing traditional viewers while engaging digital-first consumers.
As the countdown to premiere begins, Tum Ho Naa positions itself not just as another game show, but as a reminder that sometimes, the biggest prize on screen isn’t the jackpot, it’s the journey shared along the way.
