Rinhee Suberwal: 'True Friendship Exists Both Inside and Outside the Family'

Mumbai: As Friendship Day approaches, renowned astrologer and healer Rinhee Suberwal shares her unique perspective on what constitutes a true connection. She believes that while friendships have changed over time, the most profound bonds are found in those who understand you deeply, whether they are from your social circle or your family.

Suberwal says that she still celebrates Friendship Day, and her school friends remain a significant part of her life. "All my school friends are still in touch with me, and we’re all very proud of each other’s achievements," she says. However, she also acknowledges a shift in the nature of friendships in the modern era. "Real friendships are rare now. Most of the time, it’s just ‘friends with benefits’... The true essence of friendship has faded." She believes that while genuine friends are still out there, they are harder to find than they once were.

According to Suberwal, childhood friendships, when maintained, have a stronger foundation and a better chance of lasting a lifetime. This contrasts with relationships formed in professional settings, which she feels are often less durable. She notes that while she has good friends both inside and outside her industry, she finds more genuine understanding from those outside of it. "People in the industry are often too busy or caught up in their own issues," she explains.

For Suberwal, physical presence isn't a prerequisite for a strong friendship. "All my friends live abroad, so we don’t get to celebrate Friendship Day as such," she says. Instead, they maintain their bond through weekly video calls. "We don’t need a specific day to reassure our friendship—and that’s what I believe." This highlights her view that true friendship is a continuous connection that transcends distance and special occasions.

Suberwal's most profound insight comes from her belief that friendship isn't limited to a circle of peers. "I’m a very family-oriented person," she shares. "I’m friends with my mother, my husband, and my children. Friendship isn’t just outside your family—it lives within, too." This perspective redefines the conventional idea of friendship, suggesting that the deepest and most honest connections can be found right at home, with the people who know you best.