In an industry often driven by glamour and perception, finding genuine friendships is important. On the occasion of Friendship Day, actress Sherlyn Chopra opens up about her definition of a true friend, why emotional presence matters most, and the unique bond she shares with her favourite companion.
When asked about the one friend who keeps her grounded and points out her mistakes regardless of star status, Sherlyn turns inward. “I, Me, Myself! I strongly believe that there is a life force that exists within us which gently nudges us towards growth and evolution. It is up to us to choose on purpose to tune into our inner voice regardless of all the noise and distractions around us.”
For Sherlyn, true friendship isn’t defined by material or financial support, but by genuine emotional connection. “For me, genuineness is not about whether or not a friend can provide me with financial aid. It is unequivocally about whether or not my friend is emotionally available when I want to pour my heart out to him or her.”
While green-room chatter often centres around peers and colleagues, Sherlyn’s favourite off-screen companion is her beloved pet dog, Dodo. “My favourite star is my four-legged friend, Dodo. No matter what life throws at you, at the end of the day, your dog still loves you! Dodo is not just a dog; she is the reason I smile on the hardest days! Some dogs don’t just love you; they heal the parts you never talk about.”
Sherlyn keeps a realistic and balanced perspective on professional relationships. “I don’t have many human friends! At the place of work, I don’t look for genuine friendship. Also, I strongly believe — true friendships cannot be created; they happen!.”
“Like any other workplace, the film industry is also a workplace. Sometimes, you bond with your colleagues, and sometimes, you don’t. Whether you choose to be professional or friendly, it is perfectly okay as long as you respect the boundaries of your colleagues and yourself. In the everyday business of living, you don’t need several true friends. Having even one real, genuine friend in today’s times is a huge blessing!”
After hours spent in front of the camera, unwinding requires a space free of judgment. “After a long day at work, where you are consciously or subconsciously judged based on your looks, competence, level of productivity and performance, it feels good to unwind with a genuine friend or friends who know the real you, and where you can freely express yourself without any pressure to impress anybody.
Concluding on a spiritual note, Sherlyn sends a deeply heartfelt “Thank You” to the ultimate force that has guided her through her life’s toughest moments. “I would love to thank the Almighty for having had my back since the very beginning of my journey. I believe in the greatness, goodness, kindness, brilliance and sheer magnificence of the Almighty. The inimitable magic of the Almighty has always defied human logic, which is why I could reverse my kidney failure against all odds.”
