Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; July 15, 2020)

After a three-month lockdown in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic, the entertainment industry is limping back to normalcy. Shoots have resumed, with strict adherence to safety guidelines. Raveena Tandon got back to work by shooting for a commercial recently. Talking about the experience, the actress says that she had mentally prepared herself for the new normal. She tells BT, “There are two sides to a coin. With limited crew members, we completed the shoot in record time. However, the PPE worn by the crew members would make a rustling sound even with the slightest movement and so, everyone had to be extra careful to stay still during the shoot. Only two team members were allowed inside — the cameraman and the sound recordist. Their equipment was disinfected before they entered the floor, and I, too, strictly followed social distancing norms. Packaged water, tea and coffee were served in disposable glasses.”

The commercial was shot at Raveena’s home. She had no team to help her with hair, make-up and styling. She says, “It was truly an atmanirbhar shoot for me, as I did my own hair and make-up. It was difficult, and it’s in such times that we realise the importance of our team. But yes, I’ve accepted that this is going to be a normal way of life going forward.”