Film activist and critic Mahesh Kathi has been reported by a section of media as having contracted coronavirus. The TV show host and entertainer himself has refuted the fake news in a video message.

"Ever since the news came out on Thursday, my friends and family members have been worried. I don't know if the guys who created the rumour wish ill on me. Let me make it clear that I am doing absolutely fine. It's true that I and a few media friends recently gave samples for testing. My report came back negative," Kathi said. "Even if I were to contract the virus, I have the will power to battle it. Those who wish ill on me will be disappointed," he added, urging the media to stop spreading false news. "It's sadistic to spread fake news in the times of a pandemic," he opined.

He is planning to initiate legal action against a particular gossip portal that originated the rumour.