Mumbai: Television shows have resumed production of daily soaps in different parts of the city with producers following guidelines to ensure the safety of the cast and crew amid the coronavirus scare.
TV shows and films, which had stopped production in mid-March, have been allowed to resume shootings in non-containment zones with conditions to adhere to the state government led safety guidelines.
Colors TV shows such as Shakti Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki, Choti Sarrdaarni, Barrister Babu, Shubharambh, Naati Pinky Ki Lambi Love Story and &TV's Ek Mahanayak Dr B.R. Ambedkar and Santoshi Maa Sunaye Vrat Kathayein have resumed shooting either in Film City or in the outskirts of Mumbai in Naigaon from this week.
It is a new normal that is "not normal" said Barrister Bahu producer Shashi Mittal.
"All this is new to all of us. It is the new normal but it is not normal. It was essential to make it a habit, so we trained our crew members for ten days before shooting began.
"There is a small team, so there is warmth. We will become more comfortable slowly. This is a difficult time and everyone is being cautious," Mittal told PTI.
She said close to 30 crew members are currently working on the sets, while actors are working in shifts.
"We can't shoot family or crowded scenes today as it requires more cast, we are thinking of newer ways to shoot. We are using camera tricks and writing changes to ensure social distancing," Mittal said.
They are not shooting with child actor Aura Bhatnagar for the time being as government guidelines do not allow child actors or crew members above the age of 65.
Actors are also coming prepared with their own safety kits.
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Gracy Singh, who plays the role of Santoshi Maa in the show Santoshi Maa...., was excited to be back on sets.
"Our temperature and body oxygen levels were screened. We welcomed each other with a namaste, followed by a quick catching up session.
"There were limited people on sets and we wore masks. At every point in and around the sets, there were sanitiser bottles and sprays," Gracy said, adding, "It was quite a distinct experience, but I am sure with time, we will get used to it."
&TV show Ek Mahanayak Dr B.R. Ambedkar features child actor Aayudh Bhanushali as the young Ambedkar but the shoot had to resume without him.
His co-stars Jagannath Nivangune and Neha Joshi, who essay the roles of Ambedkar's parents -- Ramji Maloji Sakpal and Bhimabai, were present for the shooting.
"I came fully prepared with my own personal sanitation kit and carried a lot of masks with me for everyone just as a goodwill gesture, though we also have those available on the sets.
"Our temperature was checked. We regularly sanitise our hands. Everyone has been strictly adhering to the protocols and following social distancing norms," Nivangune said.