COVID-19 survivor Shikha Malhotra is new brand ambassador for Volini

Actress Shikha Malhotra is bouncing back from COVID-19 and its dire aftereffects by taking up the mantle of brand ambassador for healthcare brand Sun Pharma's painkiller Volini.

The actress, who is a qualified nursing officer, volunteered her services during the pandemic for several months before getting the virus herself. During her time as a frontline warrior, Malhotra took care of several coronavirus patients. She had worked in films like Fan (2016) and Running Shaadi (2017) and has a lead role in Kaanchli: Life in a Slough (2020).

Her selfless deeds were lauded by Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray, actress Katrina Kaif, and actors Sonu Sood and Shatrughan Sinha.

In October, the actress revealed she had tested positive for the virus. Earlier this month, Malhotra suffered a stroke and partial paralysis on the right side of her body. According to a report in the Hindustan Times newspaper, she had stated, “My health is improving but the process is slow. I’m not sure when I will be able to walk again.”

In a new television advertisement for the Volini Real Heroes series, airing on news and entertainment channels, Malhotra can be seen as an ICU nurse, aiding patients and other staff. The ad has been released in Hindi, English, Marathi, Gujarati, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam.

The commercial, directed by Kopal Nathani, has been produced by Samson Vasave of Superfly Films. Malhotra has been appointed as Volini's brand ambassador for two years.

Speaking about her latest advertisement, Malhotra said, “I am very happy to join a trusted brand like Volini. There is a confidence in Volini's immediate relief from pain for decades, I will promote this legacy. Hopefully people will like the brand’s new campaign.”