The Coronavirus had an adverse effect on economies around the world, and India was no exception. Several businesses shut shop, and many gave pink slips to employees in order to cut costs. As the country suffered, celebrities stepped up and helped those in need, making us believe that humanity, indeed, trumps all.
1. Sonu Sood: Moved by the plight of migrants who travelled on foot without food or water to return home in the times of crisis, the actor arranged for hundreds of buses for them. He even went on to set up a toll free number through which those stranded could reach out to his team. In addition, he donated PPE kits, adopted orphans, funded a surgery, and even organised smart phones for some children so that they could study online during the lockdown.
2. Rohit Shetty: The filmmaker donated ₹51 lakh to the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) to help the daily wage workers of the entertainment business. In July 2020, Mumbai police commissioner Param Bir Singh took to Twitter to thank Shetty as he facilitated 11 hotels across the city for on-duty policemen to rest and have meals. That’s not all, he transferred money to paparazzi photogs’ bank accounts to help them and their families tide over the pandemic.
3. Katrina Kaif: The actor extended a helping hand by offering monetary support to 100 out-of-work background dancers. As per reports, many began exploring different avenues to make a living. A senior dancer told a publication that, with Kaif’s help, she was able to start a small business of selling vegetables.
4. Akshay Kumar: He pledged ₹25 crore to the PM’s Relief Fund. He also donated PPE kits to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and wrist bands to the Mumbai Police for early detection of the virus. Furthermore, the actor is said to have donated sanitary napkins to underprivileged women. He also urged his fans to follow suit.
5. Priyanka Chopra Jonas: The global star donated 10,000 pairs of footwear to healthcare professionals across India. In a statement, she said, “Healthcare professionals across the country are our true superheroes, working every day to ensure our safety and fighting for us on the frontlines. Their courage, commitment, and sacrifices are saving innumerable lives in this global pandemic. While we cannot even imagine what it is like to be in their shoes, we can at least help them be comfortable in them. Because of the nature of their work, it is critical for them to have easy-to-clean shoes and apparel for themselves. We are so glad to be able to offer this support and hope this helps these caregivers in the fight against this virus.”