Lara, on shooting despite the pandemic

Back from the sets of Bellbottom, Lara Dutta recalls the experience of shooting amidst pandemic

Former Miss Universe and actress Lara Dutta is back in India from Scotland after a family outing during her shoot for the film Bellbottom. The actress recalls the experience of shooting amidst the pandemic in Glasgow.

“Initially, it was normal to feel a little anxious considering that COVID-19 cases were rising rapidly in India. But I was immediately reassured when I saw protocols in place.

Ours was the first film to be shot a fter t h e lockdown and despite the nervousness, we were eager to be back to work. We were all taken in a chartered flight to Scotland to retain and contain the safety bubble. On landing, we were tested again and sent into two weeks of quarantine. It did not, however, feel that we were imprisoned as we had the company of each other. Akshay, producer Deepshikha Deshmukh and I had brought our kids. It was like being with an extended family and as all of us had tested negative, we spent time with each other and kept the circle tight and safe for each other — especially the children. Everything was secure, right from the food delivery on sets to the drivers who took us to and fro, which also gave me a sense of security,” she says. Lara is said to be playing the role of the former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the film. “When shooting finally began, I was the first actor on the sets,” adds Lara. “And it felt hugely gratifying to be part of the first film to be shot after the l o c k - down ,” she adds.