Pooja Entertainment to adopt ‘Safety First’ norm in films shoots after lockdown

With a third version of a lockdown currently in place in India, some industries are now looking ahead to a future plan on how to open up. Vashu Bhagnani’s Pooja Entertainment is emphasizing on the safety of its cast and crew. It is committed to leading a completely sanitized film set to take care of the health of all involved, whenever film shoots will be allowed by the government after the lockdown is over.

Bhagnani believes that the new normal is here to stay and the sooner the film fraternity prepares itself for change, the better. “The film industry has come to a halt, whether in India or outside,” the veteran producer said in a statement. “Yes, parts of the world are showing signs of recovery from the virus and while India has done remarkably well to flatten the curve and keep fatalities low, we must now get ready to be back on the set. As and when the lockdown is lifted, we want to be in a position to resume work immediately. But this resumption will be as per health guidelines stipulated by the government. We don't want to take any chances," he added.

The production company is looking into using larger tents with portable air conditioners for shooting, limiting the number of people on the sets, and sanitizing all common areas. Additionally, masks and gloves will be compulsory for all staff, the equipment will be continuously disinfected, and medical assistance will be available on the sets at all times.

Vashu’s son Jackky Bhagnani believes it is imperative that stringent measures are put in place. “If there is one thing the lockdown has taught us it is to value human life and our health,” he stated. “Nothing comes before that. Every person on the set will be looked after and given the same attention. We are also mulling closed door studios for those of our films that will go on the floors immediately. While it is available abroad, we need to see if the same can be replicated in India."

Jackky’s sister Deepshikha Deshmukh added, “It is only natural that we take care of the team who are our family and ensure their safety while on the sets. I am quite sure we are not alone in realizing the first big lesson from this lockdown - health comes first. Every parameter will be double-checked before the cameras start rolling.”

The banner already has David Dhawan remake of  Coolie No.1 (2020) starring Varun Dhawan and Sara Ali Khan ready for release. It was due to be released on 1 May before the lockdown was announced and theatres were shut down. Pooja Entertainment also has the period film Bell Bottom (2021) starring Akshay Kumar, which was going on the floors later this year. 

The production house also has a few other projects that they are waiting to announce.