Bolstering their drive to fight the deadly novel coronavirus disease, police in northern India's Uttarakhand state hired a theatre actor who dressed up as 'Yama', the Hindu god of death, and alerted people about the consequences of venturing out during the ongoing 21-day lockdown in the country.

The fascinating incident took place in Kharkhari, Haridwar district on April 7.

Clips from the incident show the performer walking down the streets with policemen addressing locals on a public announcement system and asking them to stay indoors.

The performer also urged people to use masks and gloves, if they are to venture out to collect necessary items.

Sending out a stark warning, the man referred to the virus as his messenger and said similar chaos and destruction would unfold in India if people do not adhere to government directives pertaining to the containment of the disease.  

In the recent past, several unique methods have been implemented by law enforcement officers to spread awareness about the necessities of maintaining social distancing as well as remaining at home during the nationwide lockdown.

Senior superintendent of police, said, “We have been trying our best to implement the lockdown properly with the help of various measures. And we came out with the idea take help of an artist dressed up as Yamraja, a symbol of death, to spread awareness among the public about the deadly virus.”

The artist got the attention of the public who appreciated the effort by the police department, as it not only served as an awareness programme but also entertained the locals.