Sir — The Indian weightlifter, Saikhom Mirabai Chanu, recently set a new world record in clean and jerk at the Asian Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Chanu, along with the fencer, Bhavani Devi, and the sailor, Nethra Kumanan, has also qualified for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. This is an extraordinary moment for women in Indian sports. It is time that the sports ministry extended its full support to upcoming female athletes.

Swarnali Moitra,

Siliguri

BUNCH: A star lost

Sir — The passing of the Tamil actor, Vivekh, at 59 years of age in Chennai on Saturday as a result of a massive cardiac arrest is shocking. Vivekh was a Padma Shri-winning actor and a fine comedian. He is best remembered for his roles in Pudhu Pudhu Arthangal, Kadhal Mannan and Anniyan. But not many know that Vivekh was an accomplished musician as well. He did not have any formal training in music but nurtured his passion over the years, having grown up listening to the tunes of M.S. Viswanathan and Ilaiyaraaja. Vivekh was also known for his philanthropic activities. He was an admirer of Swami Vivekananda and A.P.J Abdul Kalam. Based on Kalam’s advice, Vivekh undertook the mission of planting a billion saplings in Tamil Nadu. He managed to plant over 30 lakh saplings before his demise.

A day after taking his first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine, the actor suffered a heart attack. Following the event, the Tamil Nadu health department was forced to clarify that the cardiac arrest may not be linked to the vaccine. Whatever the case may be, he will be sorely missed.

S.S. Paul,

Nadia

Sir — There is no doubt that Vivekh had made his mark on Tamil cinema. A household name, he stood out for his ability to convey social messages through comedy, thus carving out a unique space for himself. His uproarious dialogues and punch lines, couched in common sense, always got us thinking.

Vivekh had wide interests outside cinema like conservation and music. The trees he planted are an indication of the meaningful life he led outside the glitz and glamour of the film industry. In many ways, Vivekh has broadened our horizons and enriched our lives. Tamil cinema will always be indebted to him.

G. David Milton,

Maruthancode, Tamil Nadu

Sir — Very few comedians can blend social messages with comedy the way Vivekh could. His demise is a great loss for cinema.

Rupali Vaidya,

Mumbai