Exclusive News By Ashok Anchan

Mumbai: The covid-19 crisis has put a spanner into the daily basic necessities of senior freelance journalists and correspondents. Rising to their needs is Dr. Amitabh Bachchan ji, the Shahenshah of Bollywood.

Startled by this revelation, the Big B with the golden heart came to the rescue of senior freelance journalist. After satisfying himself with the help of a familiar journalist,he deposited favourable amount to the respective bank accounts of the shortlisted needy persons. Many senior media persons who have been penning stories, features, reviews since three-four decades with different publications and web portals are now freelancers in various capacities from sometime with film trade journals, regional newspapers and websites.

Time and again respected Shri Amitabh Bachchan ji has always come forward to help the needy and the deserving. Personally he had support towards the Covid-19 relief is reported in the vicinity of Rs. 15 crore which includes aids for various charitable causes and healthcare needs.

“I am doing what is permissible within my capacities and the given current scenario. It will be difficult to facilitate all,” says the senior Bachchan.

The coronavirus pandemic had taken its toll since last March 2020 and the lockdown thereon has forced many publications to close down.

“The irregularities, lockdown, curfew, SOPs have halted the film and television production activities. There are no functions or any kinds of proper events happening. Even the cinema halls are not functioning. We do not have any kind of association or trade bodies to address our grievances. Thus our small group after a hesitant discussion on phone decided to approach our acquainted celebrities,” says one of the freelancers’.

A freelancer with the regional publications chipped in, “It was a kind gesture on the part of Mr. Bachchan sahab.”

All the beneficiaries find it difficult to express themselves in this moment of relief for each of them. It was indeed a blessing in disguise in this tested times. We all pray to the Almighty to bless the noble soul with more and more laurels in his entire upcoming endeavor.