By Renuka Dhakal
Kathmandu, Aug. 27: The ongoing COVID -19 pandemic has affected the film industry with the halt of film production, distribution and exhibition.
The rampaging pandemic has raised a question mark about the resumption of the film industry not only in Nepal but around the world.
Rajesh Hamal, considered the ‘Mahanayak’ of the Nepali film industry, said that the situation was very confusing and it was unclear how long the crisis would last.
“The film industry requires direct involvement of diverse groups of people and with the growing cases of COVID-19, it is extremely risky to resume activities of the film industry,” he added.
“The pandemic has had a devastating effect on everyone from the production teams to hall operators, technicians and filmmakers,” Hamal said. Looking at the current global crisis, we have no choice but to be patient and hope for the situation to be normal again, he added.
Responding to whether the movies should begin their shooting in the midst of the COVID-19 scare, Hamal said, “The filmmakers should not be impulsive and should not hurry to begin shooting. The shooting should be resumed slowly and gradually with adoption of precautionary measures after the situation becomes normal.”
Superstar Hamal has been offered three movies in a period of three to four weeks during this crisis. He is currently reading the scripts but has not made any decision yet.
He said, "I have not worked in any film for the last three years. I will be selective and will only work on worthy films.”
Besides, Hamal is also working on his own story for his next project based on societal issue.
Hamal also urged all the filmmakers to think about sustaining and continuing in the film industry amid the crisis. Everyone should be flexible in their demands and remuneration until the situation completely returns to normalcy, he added.
He said the new artistes were more affected than the veteran ones as they were slowly growing and gathering experiences. “But this unprecedented condition has been a big hurdle in their career,” he said.
During this lockdown, actor Hamal is pursuing productive and creative interests. He has been exercising for physical and mental fitness along with reading books and film scripts.
Talking about the ongoing controversies, Hamal said the controversies were bad and counterproductive. “One was very impulsive and later apologised realising they made a mistake. Such imprudent controversies are unproductive.”
Actors should not be too sensitive and vulnerable to trivial issues. “We are public figures and the public has the right to appreciate or criticise us and our work, he added.
All the artistes should understand the nature of their profession and should react and handle criticisms in a civilised manner. Regarding celebrities’ use of social media platforms to promote themselves, he said that not all followers on social media were always there for praise and admiration.
“There are some followers who follow celebrities just to make harsh comments and criticisms. While today's celebrities have advantage of social media, mainstream media still has a great role in their profession,” said Hamal.