Sonil Dedhia (HINDUSTAN TIMES; March 18, 2020)

The outbreak of coronavirus has truly impacted one and all. Be it the common man or Bollywood superstars, everyone is dealing with the problem in their own way. From movie shoots to film releases — many events have been postponed indefinitely. With gyms and malls being shut, stars are sticking to their houses and are hardly stepping out. Most of the paparazzi have also decided to take a break.

Celebrity photographer Viral Bhayani (right) and his team have decided to go easy. “This has never happened in the past as no matter what happens. But this is a serious problem and as things get bad, we have decided take a break for few days till the virus is in control. Some of my team members have voluntary decided to work but I’ve asked them not to venture out.”

Bhayani, who has been in the photography business for around 18 years, adds that he is ready to bear the financial loss, “My business is on subscription basis so it won’t affect much but I’m not worried about the loss as human life is more precious,” he says.

Celebrity photographer Manav Manglani (left) echoes Bhayani’s thoughts, “My team and I are taking it slow. The boys have made two teams and are taking alternative days off. It’s a strange feeling as phones aren’t buzzing and the mailbox is not flooded. While there no events, airport and gym spotting, some of the celebrities are venturing out for meetings and dubbing. We are trying to get whatever is possible. Apart from that the plan is to post some photos from archives as the business needs to go on.”

Photographer Yogen Shah (above) feels that the shutdown is going to be temporary, “Bollywood can’t stay shut for long otherwise the losses are going to be massive. Some of my team members have decided to go on leave. The celebrity movement is also slow so I believe it won’t affect the business much.”