Bollywood singer Kanika Kapoor has tested positive for the Coronavirus, and as a result hundreds of people could be subject to testing.
The Baby Doll singer was one of four people diagnosed in the north Indian city of Lucknow on March 20.
Kapoor confirmed the news on her Instagram account, stating she had been feeling poorly over the last few days.
“For the past 4 days I have had signs of flu, I got myself tested and it came positive for Covid-19," she said. "At this stage I would like to urge you all to practice self-isolation and get tested if you have the signs. I am feeling ok, like a normal flu and a mild fever, however we need to be sensible citizens at this time and think of all around us.”
While fans rallied around her, what concerned the local health authorities is Kapoor’s movements over the last 10 days.
In addition to returning from London, Kapoor attended two glitzy parties involving hundreds of guests, including a local politician. Health officers have been tracing Kapoor’s movements and tracking down people she came in contact with in order to get them tested.
Kapoor defended her actions online stating her temperature was examined upon her arrival from London. “I was scanned at the airport as per normal procedure 10 days ago when I came back home, the symptoms have developed only 4 days ago.”
Bollywood reaction to Coronavirus
The news comes as the pandemic continues to impact the vibrant Bollywood industry. Already a slew of potential blockbusters, such as Tiger Shroff's Baaghi 3 and Irrfan Khan's Angrezi Medium, fell short of box office expectations due to the closing of cinemas. Other film productions have been postponed, including Salman Khan's Radhe: Your Most Wanted Bhai, whose shooting schedule included Azerbaijan. Heart throb Hrithik Roshan also cancelled a planned fans meet and greet tour across the US.
Making use of the self-isolation, however, is actress and fitness instructor Shilpa Shetty, who posted a video of exercises that can be done at home.
