This archive report was first published on 12 July 2020.
India's Bollywood Icon Amitabh Bachchan Contracts Coronavirus ¶
On July 11, 2020, India's biggest star, Amitabh Bachchan, announced via Twitter that he had contracted the coronavirus, sending shockwaves across the country.
At 77, Bachchan is not only a renowned actor but also one of India's most revered figures, with his face and voice appearing in countless ads, public service campaigns, and films.
With India experiencing a surge in coronavirus cases, Bachchan's announcement came as a stark reminder of the country's struggle to contain the pandemic.
India has reported over 30,000 new cases daily, with the country now ranking third in total cases after the United States and Brazil.
As the situation worsens, authorities in several big Indian cities and states are reinstating quarantines, and international travel remains blocked.
Despite the challenges, India's authorities have been innovative in their approach to fighting the virus, with measures such as remote boarding pass checks and the use of electromagnetic wands to minimize face-to-face contact.
However, the country's dense population remains its biggest enemy, with dozens of cities having over a million people and many families living in cramped quarters, making it difficult to maintain social distancing.
Bachchan's contracting of the coronavirus has sparked widespread concern, but his son, Abhishek, has also tested positive, and both father and son appear to have only mild symptoms.
As India struggles to contain the pandemic, Bachchan's announcement serves as a reminder of the country's vulnerability and the need for continued vigilance.
