In lockdown, I spend most of my time meditating: Deepak Dobriyal

Amid the nationwide lockdown, actor Deepak Dobriyal & his film crew are stuck in Almora, where they had reached on March 9.
We had come to Almora on a two-month shooting schedule. We could shoot only for five days. This place is called Satkhol. It is quite secluded with the main road located at a distance of 4km. Our team of 7-8 people here comprises the director, producer, cameramen and assistants, among others.Manoj Bajpayeeji, who is also a part of this project, is staying in a different resort nearby.

The resort where I am staying is very beautiful. The view and the natural surroundings are spectacular. There’s even an open space for gardening and I love to do that during my free time. The owner of this place has been making all possible efforts to make our stay comfortable. The producer of the film is also here with us and is looking after the entire team. Mujhe yahan kisi bhi cheez ki kami mehsoos nahi ho rahi hai.

Here, I start my day with photography. I also love to do gardening every day. I’m penning down some poetry as well. Most of my time, however, is spent meditating. This place is so serene and calm that one needs minimum effort to meditate.
This time, however, I didn’t get a chance to visit my home in Pauri. When you’re shooting with an entire unit, you need to follow certain protocols. I’m missing my family way too much and I’m worried about them. Agar mera parivar yahan hota mere saath toh baat hi kuch aur hoti. I am missing my daughter more than ever. Maine sarkaar ki kabhi madad nahi li hai lekin kabhi kabhi mann karta hai ki ek parcha banwaun aur lekar Mumbai pahunch jaun!
Even if this would’ve been possible, I would have to stay in quarantine for a minimum of 14 days. I’m constantly being advised by my wife and friends in Mumbai to stay safe here in Almora. I feel during such times, everyone who is far away from home would be feeling the same way. Agar parivar saath mein ho toh ek support rehta hai. My wife has been taking care of the kids. I’m grateful to the domestic helps in such crucial times.

In one of my recent interviews, I had said I would support my staff, even if I have to take a loan. The reason is that since this lockdown has been imposed, we are constantly seeing news of people being kicked out of their companies. It shouldn’t be a big deal for big companies to support their employees in such a crucial time. Kam se kam insaaniyat ke naate un logon ki madad toh kar hi do jinhone tumhare liye itni mehnat ki hai!
Lastly, I urge all the readers out there to please be safe, stay at home and don’t go out unnecessarily. This is a war and we must all win it together.
— As told to [email protected]