In India, the number of Covid-19 cases has climbed to 40,263, including 1306 deaths.
The who’s who of the Indian entertainment industry and some international stars came together on Sunday for the home-to-home fundraiser concert I For India.
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The proceeds from the concert will go to India COVID Response Fund managed by GiveIndia.
The four-hour-long concert, which was streamed on Facebook, featured A R Rahman, Aamir Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Aditya Roy Kapur, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Ajay–Atul, Akshay Kumar, Alia Bhatt, Amaan Ali Bangash & Ayaan Ali Bangash, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Anil Kapoor, Ankur Tewari, Anoushka Shankar, Anushka Sharma, Arijit Singh, Arjun Kapoor, Ayushmann Khurrana, B Praak, Badshah, Bhumi Pednekar, Bryan Adams, Dia Mirza, Divine, Dulquer Salmaan, Farah Khan, Farhan Akhtar & Band, Gulzar, Hariharan, Harshdeep Kaur, Hrithik Roshan, Jack Black, Javed Akhtar, Jay Sean, Joe Jonas, Kapil Sharma, Karan Johar, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Kartik Aaryan, Katrina Kaif, Kevin Jonas, Kiran Rao, Kusha Kapila, Lilly Singh, Lisa Mishra, Madhuri Dixit, Mame Khan, Mindy Kaling, Nalandaway Foundation, Nick Jonas, Papon, Parineeti Chopra, Pritam, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Raja Kumari, Rana Daggubati, Rani Mukherji, Ranveer Singh, Rekha Bhardwaj, Rohit Sharma, Russell Peters, Saif Ali Khan, Sania Mirza, Shabana Azmi, Shah Rukh Khan, Shaheen Bhatt, Shankar Ehsaan Loy, Shreya Ghoshal, Shruti Haasan, Sidharth Malhotra, Sonu & Nevaan Nigam, Sophie Turner, Sunidhi Chauhan, The Shillong Chamber Choir, Tiger Shroff, Twinkle Khanna, Varun Dhawan, Vicky Kaushal, Vidya Balan, Virat Kohli, Vishal Bhardwaj, Will Smith, Ustad Zakir Hussain and Zoya Akhtar. Read less
In India, the number of Covid-19 cases has climbed to 40,263, including 1306 deaths.
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Shah Rukh Khan closes the concert by singing "Sab Sahi Ho Jayega", which has been composed by Badshah and written by Saini. Shah Rukh's son AbRam makes an appearance in the song. Once the star finishes his track, he says, "I can go for one more," AbRam interrupts, saying, "Papa, it's enough."
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Will Smith says, "India holds a really warm and special place in my heart. My family and I have spent a lot of time here and it's really like a home away from home for me. So, when Karan Johar asked me days ago to be a part of this, I jumped at the opportunity. In these dark and difficult times, there are hundred and thousands of migrants going without income, food and homes. That's why it's important that initiatives like I for India are able to garner our support. I have the luxury to be at home, surrounded by my family during this time. Please participate if you can."
Ranveer Singh croons "Doori" from his last on-screen outing, Gully Boy.
Vicky Kaushal says, "I am proud of India - the way we have united in our fight against COVID-19. We can perform a surgical strike at our enemy by being inside our homes. I salute all the frontline professionals. The most important thing for us right now is being at home, but it's very sad that many of our brothers and sisters don't have a roof over their head and are stuck either in their work cities or somewhere between their native towns and places of work."
Sonu Nigam sings a few of his hit tracks like "Tanhai", "Yeh Dil" and "Suraj Hua Maddham". He then invites his son Nevaan Nigam, who croons Maroon 5's "Sugar" and "Girls Like You". Sonu concludes his act with a rendition of Kal Ho Na Ho title track.
Canadian singer Bryan Adams performs his popular track, "Shine a Light".
I For India concert pays tribute to Irrfan Khan and Rishi Kapoor. While Mira Nair spoke about Irrfan, Amitabh Bachchan paid tribute to Rishi.
Mira Nair says, "To speak of Irrfan Khan in the past tense is virtually impossible because Irrfan was always alive. He was alive to life. He was alive to whimsy. He was alive to hypocrisy. He was alive to friendship. He was alive to the street child. Irrfan was one of the most beautiful listeners I have ever known. He listened beautifully and harnessed it into his art.
In his work, there was never repetition. There was never something that you had seen before. There was always this inimitable honesty. This twinkle and this knowing sense that he had seen through it. He was bringing it to you with nothing that covered the purity of the intent.
I will miss you so much Irrfan, but you have left an extraordinary legacy of work because you always knew that you were special. And, that you had something that must be cherished, nourished and not fritted away. That's what you gave us, in each one of your roles.
You have also left an inspired group of extraordinary actors across the subcontinent who looked to you. Your flame is still in them. That is my only sucker, as I keep going in a world without Irrfan, in a cinema without Irrfan, but thank you. There are no words for what you have given us."
Music composer Pritam and singer Arijit Singh perform a special version of "Shayad" from their recent release, Love Aaj Kal 2.
Alia Bhatt appears with author, sister Shaheen Bhatt to thank essential services providers and frontline workers. They also express their fear of 'unknown'. 'Every day, we wake up feeling fearful. The whole world is grappling with it,' said Alia before announcing that musician Ankur Tewari will join her and Shaheen for a special performance.
The act begins with Alia singing "Ik Kudi" as Ankur plays the piano. Shaheen joins in singing the title track of Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin, directed by her father Mahesh Bhatt.
Hrithik Roshan sings and plays "Tere Jaisa Yaar Kahan" from Yaarana on his piano. The song was originally composed by his uncle Rajesh Roshan.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan says, "I would like you to know that you aren't alone. There is always a beacon of hope. All frontline workers and medical fraternity are working hard to make us feel safe, keep us safe and look after our well being."
Nick Jonas says that India is now his second home and he stands in solidarity with everyone in the time of crisis.
"My heart breaks for those whose lives have been affected by it. The migrants, daily wage earners. I am going to say I can, I will and I must help. Please donate," says Nick before performing a rendition of his hit track "Jealous". Towards the end, the singer is joined by actor-wife Priyanka Chopra and they both ask fans to donate.
"I, for one, am for India. If ever I get kicked out of North America, you will see me performing live there (in India)," jokes Russell Peters. The comedian appeals to his fans to donate towards the initiative.
Varun Dhawan performs an act in collaboration with Shiamak Davar's Institute of Performing Arts Global. He dances to "Mile Sur Mera Tumhara" from his recent release Street Dancer 3D.
"Love and kindness will get us through this," Varun said before the act.
Farhan Akhtar, along with his band, perform "Tum Ho" from "Rock On!!" for the audience.
Mindy Kaling sends love to her "brothers and sisters in India", and asks people to donate towards I For India.
Joe Jonas and Sophie Turner express their love for India and ask people to donate for I For India.
AR Rahman says, "Art has the power to change and inspire. Let us stand for those who aren't privileged. Let us show we care."
The musician then performed "O Aashiqa" from his upcoming film 99, which is his maiden production.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas condemns the attacks on healthcare professionals and stigmatisation of COVID-19 patients.
Priyanka says, "This is our new normal. We have to stay away from each other, but we are together in hearts. But what about those who can't wait out at home. They are putting their lives at risk to save us. I am talking about our frontline healthcare professionals. And the patients, it's not their fault. We should understand that there's no cure right now. It's our responsibility to show them empathy and kindness. My mom and dad are doctors. Many in my family are in healthcare, and they have kept their patients above them. They have taught me to take care of people. We have to let professionals do their job, and we have to let patients heal. I read stories of attacks on these people, and this should not be happening."
Comedian Kapil Sharma lauds the efforts of frontline healthcare workers. He also takes a dig at those violating the rules of the lockdown. "There's a suggestion that once the lockdown is lifted, all these people can go to a far away place and create their own country there," he says.
Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan talk about the importance of re-connecting with families, friends and reaching out to the less-privileged.
"Some of us are more comfortable and it's our duty to help the less privileged, not only financially but also emotionally. May be making a video call to our parents and others. That is so important," says Saif.
Kareena adds, "Thanks to technology, we can connect with our people across the world. Let's reach out to our uncles and aunties. We feel better when we share stories. I hope and pray all of you can refresh your old ties."
Rekha and Vishal Bhardwaj croon their duet from Omkara, "O Saathi Re".
Singer Harshdeep Kaur croons "Ik Onkar" and "Kabir".
Javed Akhtar says that it's important for citizens to spare a thought for migrants and daily wage workers who are walking miles to go back to their home.
"We all are confined to our houses, but let's think of those who don't have homes - the migrants, the daily wage workers, the ones you see walking on highways. They don't know where their next meal will come from. Coronavirus is horrible but trust me, hunger is equally horrible. Hunger humiliates a person. By the third day, you are reduced to a creature who is looking for a piece of bread," said Akhtar before reciting his poem, "Bhookh".
Abhishek Bachchan appeals to people to donate for the underprivileged.
"In these times, it feels good to see that India has kept its sense of humour intact. In a day, at least five lockdown and coronavirus jokes surface online. But in all this, we should think about those who aren't as privileged as us and are away from their families with no food or shelter. You can forward your help for these people," says Abhishek Bachchan.
Rapper Divine croons "Kohinoor" from his album of the same name.
Bhumi Pednekar requests the audience to look after people who are suffering from loneliness and poor mental health during self-isolation period.
Sarod players Ayaan and Amaan Ali Khan play "Ekla Cholo Re". It is followed by a performance by their father, sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, who plays the prayer "Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram".
Ayushmann Khurrana croons "Paani Da Rang", "Mitti Di Khushboo" and "Saadi Gali".
The Bala actor also recites a poem in Hindi, expressing his thoughts about prevalent prejudices against communities and countries regarding COVID-19.
Jay Sean performs his hit track "Dance with You", after making an appeal to people to donate for the needy. "Even though it might feel we are alone because we are all quarantined, but I don't think the world has ever been more together. I see humanity come together, helping each other, rallying behind each other, and that's what today is all about," says Jay Sean.
Kartik Aryan says he won't do what the audience expects him to do, but expresses his expectations from fans.
"Extend your hands and help all those who aren't only protecting themselves from COVID-19 but also their bad luck and helplessness. Please donate for all the daily wage workers," he says.
Sunidhi Chauhan sings "Gun Gu Guna Re" from Agneepath to cheer the audience.
"While I am fortunate enough to be at home and safe, there are thousands of frontline and emergency workers who are putting their lives on the line every day to fight against coronavirus. Every rupee collected today will help equip these heroes better," says Katrina Kaif.
Hollywood actor Jack Black says the world needs to come together to fight the pandemic. He adds, "We are going to get through it."
"I am going to give to I for India. We got to work together. The whole world needs to work together. We are going to get through this. Much love to our brothers and sisters in India. I for India, count me in. Love you," says the Jumanji actor.
Madhuri Dixit sings Ed Sheeran's "Perfect" as son Arin Nene plays the piano.
Vidya Balan appeals to the audience to show more sensitivity towards each other and their families. Speaking against domestic violence, which has been on the rise since the lockdown in March, Vidya says, "Home is not a safe place for everyone who is at the receiving end of domestic violence. Some people are taking out the frustration of staying at home and not going out on their loved ones. I want to say domestic violence not only harms the one it is directed at but also destroys the one doing it and their family. Please show more love and empathy toward each other."
"My colleagues and I stand in solidarity with everyone in these grave and depressing times," says tabla maestro Zakir Hussain. He then performs for the audience
Composer duo Ajay-Atul perform a Marathi prayer, which they said was there way of contributing to India's fight against the pandemic. The prayer is titled "Show Us the Way, Almighty".
Sidharth Malhotra, who joins the concert with his pet Oscar, appeals to the audience to take care of stray animals during the lockdown. "Coronavirus doesn't spread through animals, so please don't mistreat them. Look out for stray animals and give them love," says Sidharth.
Twinkle Khanna talks to Dr Devi Shetty about the progress that India has made in its fight against coronavirus and the misinformation that has been spread about the pandemic, which has stigmatised COVID-19 patients and frontline professionals.
"Lockdown is not the solution. It has to be lifted. We need to test more. Misinformation against the COVID-19 patients should be discouraged because they are our heroes. They are contributing to herd immunity, which is what we need to build. 50 per cent of the country will have to be infected with the virus to build immunity. So, these patients should actually be honoured," says Dr Devi Shetty.
Badshah performs with Lisa Mishra. They begin with "Tareefan" from Veere Di Wedding. Both had individually performed two different versions of the song in the film. The duo also sing "Genda Phool".
Arjun Kapoor requests citizens to donate for the ones who don't have the privilege to quarantine and work from home.
Papon asked people to show love and solidarity towards those who have lost their livelihood due to lockdown. He sings "Moh Moh Ke Dhaage" from Dum Laga Ke Haisha.
Shreya Ghoshal dedicates her performance to frontline healthcare workers. She sings "Tujhse Naraz Nahi" from Masoom.
Tiger Shroff surprises his audience with his singing skills. The actor sings "Theher Ja" from October and his personal favourite, "Roop Tera Mastana".
Veteran actor Shabana Azmi appeals citizens to rise above differences. Azmi hopes the post-COVID-19 world would be one which is more fair and equal.
"This is time for us to introspect. It's time to shed our prejudices. It's time to come together in kinship and harmony. I hope this will lead to a new world order, which is just, inhabitable and in sync with nature," says Shabana Azmi.
Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy perform songs like "Galla Goodiyan" and "Senorita".
Aamir Khan and Kiran's performance was followed by an appeal by actor Anil Kapoor to donate for the ones severely affected by the lockdown. "Hello, I am your Mr India. But right now, I want all of you to be Mr Indias."
Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao talk about the importance of showing solidarity during the lockdown period. "It's important we extend support to the needy. But most important is to not let go off hope," says Aamir before the couple broke into Bollywood songs, "Aa Leke Chalu Tujhe" and "Jeena Isika Naam Hai".
The concert begins with Akshay Kumar's recitation of a poem by lyricist Manoj Muntashir. The poem is titled "Tumse Ho Nahi Payega".