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.
GECs
Sony PAL to air Sankat Mochan Hanuman from May 4 at 9 PM
Mythological series brings Lord Hanuman’s tale of devotion and courage back to TV
MUMBAI: Sony PAL is set to bring back the timeless mythological series Sankat Mochan Hanuman, with its premiere scheduled for May 4 at 9 PM. The show revisits the legendary journey of Lord Hanuman, offering viewers a chance to reconnect with one of Indian mythology’s most revered figures.
Centred on themes of devotion, courage and righteousness, the series traces Hanuman’s unwavering loyalty to Lord Ram and his fearless stand against evil. With its mix of dramatic storytelling and visually rich sequences, the show aims to deliver both entertainment and spiritual resonance, appealing to audiences across age groups.
The narrative unfolds as a larger-than-life saga, positioning Hanuman as the ultimate protector and a symbol of strength and selfless service. His journey, rooted in faith and duty, continues to strike a chord with viewers, making the series as relevant today as ever.
The cast features Gagan Malik as Lord Ram, Debalina Chatterjee as Sita, Nirbhay Wadhwa in the titular role, and Saurav Gurjar as Raavan. Their performances bring depth and authenticity to characters deeply embedded in Indian cultural memory.
With its return to television, the show is positioned as more than just a rerun. It taps into a renewed appetite for mythological storytelling, blending nostalgia with timeless values.
As audiences increasingly seek content that resonates beyond entertainment, ‘Sankat Mochan Hanuman’ offers a familiar yet powerful narrative, reminding viewers that stories of faith and courage never really go out of style.
