Easing of restrictions is welcome, but they must be carried out carefully

Our readers have their say about lockdowns, Rishi Kapoor and stem cell treatment for coronavirus

The Indian ministry of home affairs further extended the nationwide lockdown for another two weeks to stem the widespread of the coronavirus. EPA

I write to you in reference to your article Coronavirus latest: WHO urges countries to ease lockdowns slowly (May 2). This is a meaningful and thought-provoking piece. Lockdown measures have been in place all over the world for a good while now, and many nations are ready to open up their economies. At the same time, if they do it too hastily, and people stop following physical distancing and hygiene rules overnight, experts have warned that it is likely a second wave of infections will hit. Eased restrictions must be carried out in stages, and with great care. The world economy has already been shattered, and prolonging the lockdowns will take a toll on both our morale and the economy. India is taking this challenge head-on and easing restrictions carefully. I hope that in the coming days, a sense of normalcy will return to India.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

Rishi Kapoor: your legendary memory lives on

Please refer to the news item Beloved Bollywood star Rishi Kapoor dies aged 67 by Farah Andrews (April 30) about the sad passing away of Rishi Kapoor, a popular and versatile Indian actor. Kapoor was a beloved actor and an outspoken artist. He starred in numerous films, commencing with Mera Naam Joker and then later the cult film Bobby. He was the romantic hero of the 1970s and 80s, and his talents went beyond acting. Dancing also came naturally to him, as it did to all the members of his family. His book Khullam Khulla is an enriching read, too. Kapoor was loved by his fans. He had rivals, but no enemies.

He further proved his histrionic skills and talents in some of the films in which played major roles in the past decade, such as D-Company and Mulk. I am sure his son Ranbir Kapoor will carry on the great tradition of brilliant acting, for which the Kapoor dynasty is renowned. My condolences to his wonderful family.

Rajendra Aneja, Dubai

Abu Dhabi stem cell treatment gives us hope

I write to you in reference to a video posted on The National's Facebook page with the following caption: UAE researchers develop promising breakthrough Covid-19 treatment (May 2).

What an amazing achievement. We urgently need to find an effective treatment to combat the spread of this deadly virus.

Dr Rahmath Mohammad, Sri Lanka

I am confident this will be the best innovation in the fight against coronavirus, and is it all thanks to the UAE's rulers.

Mark Mich, Dubai