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‘POLICE HAVE GONE BEYOND CALL OF DUTY’
Says actor Diana Penty, who distributed safety essentials to several Mumbai cops
Aweek into the lockdown, actor Diana Penty connected with Byculla police station, Mumbai, to understand how she could help those risking their lives to battle Covid-19. She then teamed up with the Salaam Bombay Foundation (SBF) and connected with senior cops from across Mumbai, leading to the #Thekhakiproject.
“We wanted to help those on the frontline ensuring people were off the streets. We wanted to show our appreciation and give back in any possible manner. We focussed on two essentials — hand sanitisers and safety eyewear — so they could protect themselves on duty. With the assistance of SBF, we identified 10 police stations (with around 2,000 personnel) across South Mumbai that either fell under containment, or needed supplies the most,” says the actor, who hopes to extend the support to all of Mumbai’s 94 police stations.
Penty has been involved at all stages of the drive — conceptualising, planning and execution, besides being handson in packing and distribution. “It was natural for us to invest in the project as we feel strongly about the cause. It’s our little way of saying thank you to the Mumbai Police. They not only ensured a smooth lockdown, but have also gone beyond the call of duty to help those in distress. We hope it can make a difference, even if it is in a small way,” shares the 34-yearold.
The Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran (2018) actor reveals she has no complaints about being at home in the lockdown in the last two months. “This time has made me realise how lucky I am to have a home and the luxury of social distancing. It’s been heartbreaking reading about people suffering in these tough times. I’m grateful for what I have and I think now more than ever, it’s important we help those in need,” she says.
Penty points out the lockdown has had an impact on every single one of us, in some way or the other. “It’s helped me realise that I’m way more capable around the house than I could ever imagine! )Butona serious note, I’ve had the time to think about things, life, the world in general and my place in it. It’s been a great opportunity for me to connect with myself and learn. I’ve learned to value the little things in life that I would have taken for granted. I value the people I’m close to and whom I love,” she adds.