The Coronavirus epidemic has taken a heavy toll on the entertainment industry, with theatres closing and movie releases being delayed indefinitely. Millions of residents have been put under strict lockdown by the end of the month as attempts to stop the virus’s spread in the world ramp up.
With all filming stopped and everyday wage staff on film sets out of jobs, some celebrities have stepped forward to provide financial support to those in desperate times. They demonstrated their humanity by contributing millions of rupees to a worthy cause. The generosity of these actors during these hardships are truly noteworthy. Here is a list of them.
Prakash Raj
In these difficult times, veteran actor Prakash Raj, who is very outspoken about social issues, has taken measures to assist employees working at his production home, house, farm, base, and pending films.
The actor has paid their entire paycheck in advance until May and has taken to social media to inspire others to do the same. He also said that he would keep helping others and encouraged us to stand for one another.
Nithiin
Nithiin, a Telugu actor who is riding high on the success of his new film Bheeshma, has donated Rs 10 lakh each to the CM relief funds of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to fight the devastating pandemic.
Karan Johar’s home banner Dharma Productions has secured the remake rights to Bheeshma and will announce the Hindi version very soon. Bheeshma’s screenplay impressed Karan Johar, and the film’s box office success bodes well for a Hindi remake.
Dr Rajasekhar
Dr. Rajasekhar is a well-known actor who is often seen volunteering for charitable causes. Aside from appearing in movies, the 58-year-old star has been involved in a lot of charity work. He founded Rajasekhar Charitable Trust at a young age and began to show interest in social causes and work for the betterment of poor people.
Dr Rajasekhar and his wife Jeevitha are reportedly coming forward to lend a helping hand during these difficult times in Tollywood. The actor has agreed to donate necessities to struggling artists in the industry.
Karthi and Suriya
Suriya Sivakumar, brother Karthi, and father Sivakumar donated Rs 10 lakh to FEFSI (Film Employees Federation of South India) staff who lost their jobs as a result of the pandemic. Suriya is looking forward to the release of his next film, Aakasam Nee Haddura, directed by Sudha Kongara.
The film is currently in post-production, and a release date will be confirmed very soon. Veteran actor Mohan Babu plays an important role in the film. Meanwhile, Karthi will appear in Bakkiyaraj Kannan’s Sultan and Mani Ratnam’s Ponniyin Selvan, both directed by Mani Ratnam.
Rajinikanth
Thalaiva Rajinikanth is said to have donated Rs 50 lakh, which is 25% of the amount asked by FEFSI president RK Selvamani.
The filming of Rajinikanth’s ‘Annaatthe,’ directed by Siruthai Siva, has also been halted due to the Coronavirus lockout. Sun Pictures is producing the film, which is scheduled to be released during Diwali 2020.