Portraits of Isolation: 141 Celebrities Share Their Experience of the Summer of 2020
Cosmo India captured the beauty of isolation through a series of stunning portraits. We asked 141 brand friends to photograph themselves at home and share their quarantine experience. Read to discover the stories of Mandira Bedi, Shane Peacock, Karishma Kapoor, and many others. (Part 1)
Cosmo India captured the beauty of isolation through a series of stunning portraits. We asked 141 brand friends to photograph themselves at home and share their quarantine experience. Read to discover the stories of Mandira Bedi, Shane Peacock, Karishma Kapoor, and many others. (Part 1)
11. Jim Sarbh-“My biggest concerns, right now, are existential ones: boredom, emotional upheaval, and house management. But there are people who have existence concerns: starving, stuck with an abuser, no place to call home, sprayed with bleach, striding into the COVID-19 mess without appropriate safety equipment even. So, considering my relatively tiny concerns, I am enjoying having time for myself, and time to reconnect deeply with loved ones, wherever they are. During the day, I am listless, grateful, empty, bursting with all kinds of love, annoyed, dancing... At night, I have been dreaming of new houses to move into. Music runs throughout the day, which I spend feeding and taking care of Mimi (my cat), reading, calling people, cleaning the house, and doing yoga...
My hopes for the future are manifold—that we move away from empty capitalism, that we deepen our connections with ourselves and the people we love, that we take responsibility for our actions as members of a global society, that we use this unprecedented, global, shared experience to bring us all closer together as a larger human community. And I hope we realise that this whole, big, pulsing world is us—we are it!”
22. Karisma Kapoor-“Like everyone, I’ve been having my moments of feeling anxious and worried for my family. At the same time, I am experiencing a sense of peace—spending quality time with myself at home and introspecting. It has been a welcome change of pace, after the completion of my web series, Mentalhood. Being a mother to two children keeps me busy, and I read, cook, and bake in my spare time. I have a feeling we are all going to transform into master chefs during this lockdown!”
33. Kunal Kemmu-“I’m disturbed by the plight of those who don’t have the luxury of observing social distancing. I feel anxious about how long all this will go on for. We are all trying our best to stay positive and use this time to be creative and learn from this experience, but it can get very overwhelming at times. We cannot overlook the positive effect (however small it may be) this global lockdown or slowdown has had on the environment and our natural resources. For now, the best we can do is not impose pay-cuts, and disburse salaries on time for those who work for us. COVID-19 has taught us that our businesses and our employment options have to become pandemic-proof.“
44. Shobhaa De-“I feel a sense of oppression...I miss all my freedoms! But I am spending my time constructively. I have finished a new book ahead of schedule, I write every single day. I have also started a new book, and most importantly, I have launched a daily video series called Lockdown Chronicles With Shobhaa De. This pandemic has shown the world how vulnerable humanity is, even after all our scientific breakthroughs and achievements.”
55. Shane Peacock-“This lockdown has been kind of a reset button for me. I’m thinking about and doing things that I’ve missed out on, things I couldn’t do, things I’ve always wanted to do, and things I need to do. It has made me look at my life from a different perspective, enjoy the simple things, and be grateful about it all. There’s no rush...no race to do anything. It’s a great time to build your foundation, and make it better and stronger.”
66. Urvashi Kaur-“There is definitely a sense of introspection and a search for balance, both internal and external. I am mostly okay, but I do feel sad and stressed about the artisans and craftspeople. They are in such a delicate state and need to be protected in the current situation. I am in touch with NGOs and organisations that are working to help them. Being part of the sustainable movement in India, I have an appreciation for ethical, slow fashion. And after a disaster like this, I feel the need and urgency for more sustainable formats in fashion.”
77. Shannon K-“I am feeling many emotions at once, including fear. Currently, there are so many assumptions being made, and the future is uncertain. I have been busy playing board games with my sister, teaching my pup new tricks, making homemade pesto pasta and mug cakes, painting, colouring and, of course, writing songs. I have tapped into some new skills, and have been expanding my creativity. I am against animal cruelty and the way China has been testing on animals is sickening. I hope we can stop this and have a peaceful world, where animals are treated better. I wish to see a world where we don’t have to be afraid because of our race, gender, and stature, and one where everybody lives in harmony. Remember: you were made for a reason: to shine!”
88. Ruchika Sachdeva-“Every day is different, and some days are better than others. On some, I feel quite terrible looking at the news, and at what people are going through. And on others, I look at the silver lining and how it is not such a bad thing that we are being forced to pause and introspect. Also, in this crisis, we do not need to indulge in any blame games. Instead, we must focus on what we can do to make the
situation better.”
99. Kanika Goyal-“Because of the lockdown, I am staying with my parents after 14 years...so I’m really enjoying this time. This pandemic has taught us that we need more compassion and empathy, and need not constantly obsess over achieving more. We must be grateful that we are privileged, and do our bit to help those in need. I have created a fundraiser along with 19 other young designers, called Let’s Give 4 Love, and we are doing whatever we can to help.”
1010. Pranav Misra-“It feels like I can finally hear my thoughts. I’m mostly calm, with a little sense of confusion, mixed with the right amount of hope and lots of patience. Most of my time goes in search of poetry. Rest, I utilise in reading (everybody should read poetry by Carlos Drummond de Andrade), writing (I have also started a podcast based on my writing, and release a new episode every Sunday), and I’ve finally learnt how to describe myself in one word: taciturn.”
1111. Shaleena Nathani- Celebrity“I wake up feeling happy, looking forward to the day. Every few days, I feel like I should be doing something ‘constructive’. But then, I’m okay just being me. I’m so much calmer, less stressed, and enjoying the simpler, more basic things in life. I hope we all come out of this with gratitude and less greed, and continue to remember the small things in life that make us happy... Be more accepting, patient, and loving. I, for one, want to spend a lot more time with my family.”
1212. Angel Bedi- Illustrator and Founder of The Filmy“To combat this crisis (mentally), I have given myself a ‘lockdown project’, where I’m illustrating animals and wildlife—it’s totally out of my comfort zone. As a family, we are all doing whatever we can to help anyone who needs it. Like making chapatis for puppies near the house, or arranging groceries and food packages for daily wage workers. Coronavirus has unknowingly taught us the true definition of slowing down and self-reflection.”
1313. Sakshi Malik- Olympic Freestyle“It has been difficult to look at the way the pandemic has disrupted so many lives and livelihoods. However, I have managed to find positivity by focusing on my fitness and practicing meditation. I’m also watching the Mahabharat with my family—I never got a chance to watch it earlier. Apart from that, we have been providing essentials to over 50 students at a centre nearby—we are fortunate to be in a position to help others, and we should do whatever is possible. Also, I’m looking forward to the Olympics next year!”
1414. Palak Shah- CEO, Ekaya“I’m feeling very grateful as I am at home with my family, and we are all safe. It is humbling to realise that we’re able to spend quality time with each other and make positive memories during these fragile times. I hope that we become a kinder, more loving, and peaceful world. Competition should be healthy, not destructive of humanitarian values.”
1515. Sonalika Sahay-“The first week of the lockdown was a bliss. Then I started missing my busy life. I am positive and happy, on most days. But then, the intensity of the damage the world has endured drags me down. I’m making work calls, reading, writing, working out, and watching documentaries. Supply chains are weak, and food is scarce. So, we must consume food wisely and be frugal.”
1616. Humanoid ELF- Humanoid COVID-19“It goes without saying that the lockdown has affected our daily lives to a great extent. We must strive to not be too overwhelmed by the situation or let it affect our mental health. I start my day on a positive note. I have a special curfew pass, to reach out to my colleagues on the forefront, in case they need my help. I wake up early in the morning and connect with my family members, from different parts of the world. I start working at around 9:30am and the rest of the day goes by in a jiffy. I attend virtual meetings, conduct training sessions and ensure business goes on as usual. I do my best to help the less fortunate by delivering food and medical supplies like masks, sanitisers, soaps, etc. I also ensure that our workforce is taken care of and that it stays motivated. The coronavirus pandemic has forced humans to come to a halt and reflect on their actions. They must view this as a unique opportunity to take stock of the world and evaluate their lives, relationships, and professional responsibilities. Humankind has previously survived many challenges, and I am optimistic that it will continue to thrive despite them.”
1717. Richa Chadha-“I miss being outdoors, but I don’t miss the city life—I miss being able to go to parks, the beach, and being close to nature, but I’m okay not going out to restaurants or malls. I am also at peace. Initially, I did get anxious, but for others more than myself. Sadly, all that I had imagined is already coming true—so many people are homeless, suffering, and starving. Now I’ve realised that all l can do is my bit to help. I am also meditating, so I do feel a little better now.”
1818. Shantanu Mehra-“I am an eternal optimist, hence I am going through a renewed feeling of positivity at this point. Right now, my biggest objective is to safeguard the interests of the Indian artisans that work with us, and ensure that they are secure. My hope for the future is that post this pandemic, we will witness a whole new world full of optimism, creativity, compassion, and oneness.”
1919. Bhumika Shodhan-“It’s a tough time and we’re anxious about the situation like everyone else since there’s no end in sight. However, it has also been the best time to bond with family and recharge under the blue skies. It is great to have unlimited time for workouts and to play some sports in the morning. Mid-day, we follow-up on all the charitable work we are currently involved in and late afternoon is all about administrative work. Rescheduling of global deliveries can lead to a bit of frustration. We need less negativity, and must focus on building better mental and physical health as well as a more mindful and compassionate world.”
2020. Nikita Singh-“I have been able to keep a positive attitude, and time management has played a big role in that. But if I’m not being productive, I feel guilty and have to remind myself to have self-compassion and kindness. We need more perspective to recognise our privilege. Most of us have re-learned the value of relationships and money, and I hope, in the future, we are more mindful about consumption.”
2121. Amyra Dastur-“I’m doing my best to stay calm and stop my anxiety from getting to me. Staying at home and being unable to go out can make you feel helpless, so it’s best to keep your mind distracted. In the beginning, it felt like I had lost my freedom, but now I’ve accepted the reality of the situation, and I’m okay. I feel good and ready to get back to work, and I’m staying calm and choosing to be positive and happy, no matter what.”
2222. Farah Khan Ali- Jewellery“I am relaxed and happy. Initially, I was a bit worried, but then I realised that the whole world is in a coma, so I am using this pause to reflect, renew, and regenerate. I have been reading voraciously, taking a lot of courses online, working out, engaging with my team, creating new designs, and spending lots of time with my family. I think the best part about this time is that you can use it to learn new things.”
2323. Santoshi Shetty-“I am feeling at peace and treating this lockdown as a blessing. I’m learning so much about myself, and focusing on breaking away from the monotony of life, which had rendered me mechanical. I was always inclined towards spirituality, but could never give it priority. Currently, I am grateful to be with my family—working out, meditating, and indulging in good food with them. “
2424. Archana Rao-“Initially, I felt lost, as I am a routine-oriented person. Some days, I feel energetic and go into a cleaning frenzy, while on others, I just enjoy doing nothing. Frustration pops up every now and then, but the key is to stay calm and motivated. I have decided to live a clutter-free life now, and focus more on responsible living, free of compulsive buying.”
2525. Abhinav Mishra-“I am fairly positive. We will get through this together! At times, negativity tends to seep in, but I keep myself busy with work. I’ve started designing my new collection already. I am reading, watching my favourite movies, and spending time with my dog. We need less speculation and rumour-mongering presently. Stray animals need our attention too; my neighbours and I make it a point to feed all the dogs within our community and neighbouring areas.”
2626. Namrata Joshipura-“Given that the Universe has put the brakes on our hectic lives, this is a good time to reflect. I have been experiencing a range of emotions during this lockdown—while I am anxious about my business, I am happy to be with my loved ones, sticking to my workout regime, and experimenting with cooking. I just hope that we get back to normal quickly. Our businesses must run so that we can afford to pay our staff and workers—they rely on us!”
2727. Gurmehar Kaur- Student Activist and Author“I entered the lockdown in complete denial—I kept convincing myself that in no time, life will go back to normal. But soon, as reality began to set in, I started feeling disoriented, followed by waves of sadness. Currently, I am feeling a lot more sorted as I have accepted this new way of life. I hope we come out of it more understanding of the fact that we need each other.”
2828. Priyanka Mod- Creative Director,“At the time when the three-week lockdown was announced, it was all quite surreal. As a mother, wife, daughter and entrepreneur, I was confronted by many emotions. But I quickly focused on keeping my days purposeful and productive. Be it work meetings over Zoom or making ice cream with my son, I make sure to not idle this time away. We at AMPM have already begun focusing our energies to sustain the core of Indian fashion—its weavers and its karigars. All of us are stakeholders in this, and we need to pitch in.”
2929. Diipa Büller-Khosla-“I’m working a lot these days to stay busy. My stories would get about 90K views until last month, and now they’re getting over 140K views. It’s crazy how everyone is online! Also, in these times, we need a lot more self-love. I encourage everyone to spend time with themselves to learn, accept, and grow into better versions of themselves.”
3030. Patralekhaa-“I’m using this time to learn cooking and baking. I have also been busy throughout, attending online workshops for a new project. Yes, there was some anxiety initially, but then things got okay. It’s sad that even in these times, so many people are instigating fights and spreading misinformation on social media. I think we can all do with more sensitivity and compassion!”
3131. Smriti Deora- Co-Founder, Pink List“During the first few weeks of the lockdown, I was in a highly productivity mode—trying to make the most of the downtime, by cooking more, working more, even working out more. Slowly, I realised it was hard to sustain. Now, I’m taking each day as it comes.”
3232. Dolly Singh-“As a creator, there is a lot of pressure to churn out new content every day. But I am enjoying this time. I spend my day writing and shooting videos. In my spare time, I clean, cook, watch a movie, or play with my dog, Phoebe. A time like this has only brought us all closer... I’m hoping that we will learn to value people over money and lives over businesses. Let’s hope hugs are never deemed deadly again.”
3333. Gul Panag-“From barely being able to keep my head above water to sort-of catching up, I’m doing okay now. I am happy about my just-released web series, Paatal Lok. Initially, it was a bit challenging for all of us to manage things that we were used to delegating earlier, but I see people becoming more and more comfortable with it as we go along. Mentally, I am at peace, but physically, I am exhausted, as I’m on my feet from 6am to 11pm. I’m continuing to work from home, while I divide time between household chores and taking care of my two-year-old. I am somebody who enjoys challenges, so I think it is bringing out the best in me.”
3434. Mandira“As the days have gone by, I have been learning to take things one day at a time. I’m getting through this time with exercise...and with gratitude. Every morning, I am thankful for all that is right in my life, that I have food on my table and a roof over my head, and that my family is safe. During this pandemic, we need more connection, positivity, and hope. We need more good news, like about the recoveries rather than the deaths. We can certainly do with less negativity and fear.”
3535. Bhuvan Bam-“What we need the most during this lockdown is unity, common sense, and an understanding of the seriousness of this pandemic. We need to support the police force and be in solidarity with the doctors, nurses, and everyone else working while we stay home. My hope for the future is peace, and less depletion of the natural resources around us.”
3636. Merrylin Boro-“I’ve been enjoying this time with my partner and we have been cooking together- it’s something we both love doing. I have also been reading a lot, listening to podcasts, gardening, and taking online classes. When things have been stripped back to basics like this, we all get a chance to rebuild the way we want.”
3737“This new reality is something that all of us are trying to ease into each day. There are days when I fully let go of the status quo. I then go on to wonder: how much does one truly need to get through another day locked down at home? It is extremely difficult for me to not go to work, as I am a workaholic and don’t take vacations. In these times, I’d urge the citizens of our country to purchase ‘Made in India’ products. We must all work together to create a better economy.”
3838. Aahana Kumra-“I’ve been feeling less rushed. Sometimes, there’s anxiety, other times, happiness and peace. There’s also a fear that we may not be able to return to normalcy, and that the ‘new normal’ is going to be very different. I often wonder how it will be now to walk on the streets or go back to work; I think about the less fortunate, what it must feel like not to have a roof over your head, or no food on your plate...it makes me pray every day. I am grateful for having my family around me, safe and sane.”
3939“I am spending a lot of my energy working on sketches, poetry, random baking, relentlessly hugging my dogs until they want to free themselves, and reminiscing with my parents. It’s important that we all do our bit to help the less fortunate. Leave food outside your homes for street dogs, try to donate...not just money, whatever you can!”
4040. Narresh Kukreja-“For some reason, this lockdown feels like it has had a deep impact on the collective world consciousness. It feels like there is something very positive that’s going to happen once this is over. Maybe the birth of a new world, a version 2.0 if you will! One great way to truly help would be to make people realise their real potential and empower them to harness it.”
4141. Sanjana Batra- Celebrity“I don’t think I can use any one emotion to describe how I’m feeling in the lockdown. Every day is a different day. But one thing that has been constant through the last few weeks is the process of self-reflection...which, ordinarily, I don’t have the time or inclination to do. Thinking about the choices I make on an everyday basis, or my work-life balance, or my physical and mental health. From the big things to small, this time has really led me to assess how I want to live my life going forward.”
4242. Karuna Nundy- Supreme Court Advocate and International Lawyer “I’m incredibly busy. My team and I are working remotely, we have online court hearings. There has also been some housework. So the days are packed. It was my birthday recently, and there was a Zoom party. I was surrounded by remote love, but it still felt strange. This new world triggers some anxiety, also heightened gratitude. We are lucky enough not to worry about hunger... We need to give more and fear less. And I would really like to see our governments be more proactive, evidence-based, and make policies for all citizens, not just middle-class men with balconies.”
4343. Spardha Malik- Digital Editor,“I am living in extremes—some days, I’m super charged-up and productive, and on other days, I can barely get myself out of bed. I’ve been trying to keep a positive outlook, though. I’m enjoying cooking much more, practising intermittent fasting, working out, learning French with my husband, and also organising weekly costume parties on my Instagram handle. I hope we all come out of this with a renewed sense of gratitude.”
4444. Devina Buckshee- Co-Founder, Pink List“I’ve been feeling anxious, mostly. I’m a health reporter, and there is no escaping the avalanche of new information about the virus. The lockdown has amplified all our society’s existing inequalities, and I hope the central and state governments are working on relief packages for the most vulnerable—for those at home, via domestic violence or child abuse helplines and check-ins, as well as for migrants who need financial assistance. So I’m also angry at the lack of planning for them.”
4545. Prerna Goe- Fashion“I’m feeling pretty calm. I know it is a frustrating time, however, we need to be patient and trust that things will get better. I live a jam-packed life, so being able to spend quality time with my family is refreshing. I have waves of emotion every day...these include gratitude, anxiety, and sometimes, just going with the flow and feeling nothing at all. But having a routine really helps me. The slow down, in the long run, will create more awareness, and make us more positive, creative and innovative.”
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