Mahesh Babu’s matchstick video makes a point for social distancing

Unlike Naomi Campbell who recently made a statement about staying safe during times of COIVD-19 by taking a flight in a hazmat suit, celebs closer home are making a more compelling appeal.

Tollywood superstar Mahesh Babu left a message for his fans and Instagram followers on social distancing. He posted an animated video of a stack of lined-up matchsticks burning, progressively setting the next one on fire.

In the video, the burning — signifying the spread of the coronavirus by touch — continues until one animated matchstick figure decides to step out of the line-up, thus saving the rest of the matchsticks ahead in the line-up.

Mahesh’s caption reads, “Social distancing is the need of the hour!! It’s a tough call but we need to make it. This is time to sacrifice our social life and prioritize public safety. Stay indoors as much as you can and make the most of this phase with your family and loved ones. This will keep the virus from spreading and save many lives. Ensure you wash your hands frequently and keep your environment clean. Use hand sanitizers as much as possible, use masks only if you think you are sick... Let's continue to follow all the necessary steps until this passes. We are in it together and we will see this through... Let’s beat #COVID19 together?????? #StaySafe”