“The first few hours after I got the result I was conflicted about what I was going through,” says Arjun Kapoor talking about facing a state of emotional upheaval after testing positive for Coronavirus. After unlock was announced and shooting started, the actor shot for ads and Nikkhil Advani’s next when he contracted the virus.

“I had just shot for few days and did the test to restart the second schedule, so I felt disappointed that because of me the shoot will get postponed. I then realised I’ve to now be careful with my family, so there was a bit of concern but also I knew I’ve to deal with it practically. This one Sunday (September 6) just blew out of proportion. It took me six-eight hours to accept the situation before I could speak to the doctor,” says Kapoor, 35.

The actor was asymptomatic and is thankful to his sister Anshula Kapoor for “literally organising” his isolation. “I was living in my own room, cleaning my utensils, washroom, eating in disposable plates, and just resting. I’m indebted to my doctors, who were constantly in touch. On 14th day, they allowed me to go for a walk on the terrace. The immunity level was low so I took it slow. To anybody who believes that there aren’t any long term side effects, I can assure you that the repercussions will be felt by your body for some time,” he adds.

Though his road to recovery wasn’t easy, Kapoor stayed positive. “If you’re young and believe that you’ll not get harmed, you’re wrong. It can happen to anybody. Also, you can pass it on to your family members. Indian communities celebrate festivals, get-togethers and many still live in big families. Social distancing is important. It’s the least you can do,” he adds.

Kapoor, who has films including Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar, Bhoot Police, Ek Villain 2 and Nikhil Advani’s next coming up, has a choc-a-bloc schedule till the end of 2020. He has resumed shooting for Advani’s film. “Given the situation, I’m praying that this schedule goes as per plan. But we all have to be careful and do our part. For every shoot, outdoors schedules, everybody is tested and all protocols are being followed. After beating the virus, I’m excited to be back. This Diwali I want to put this chapter behind and start afresh,” he ends.