On the occasion of International Friendship Day, which will be celebrated on August 4, Pooja Sahu, who plays Mandira Chachi in Ravindra Gautam and Raghuvir Shekhawat’s Dahej Daasi, which is produced under their banner Do Dooni 4 Films, said, “Friendship is very important to me because in this world most relationships are based on blood ties that are already there. Friends are relationships we create ourselves, and it’s all about the vibe we share with them.”
“For me, true friendship is not about making connections with everyone; it’s about forming genuine bonds with people who naturally click with me. I value friendships that are natural and long-lasting. If I do make a connection that isn’t genuine, it often fades away. Both on-screen and off-screen friendships are important. Off-screen, friends become like family, especially when you’re away from your own family. They are the ones you share everything with, who cheer you up when you’re down and celebrate with you when you’re happy,” she added.
She also believes that it’s important to share a good bond with her co-stars as well. “If you have a good relationship with them, it shows in the on-screen chemistry, which enhances the performance. When you have a strong connection with your co-stars, it feels less like work and more like being with friends. So, both on-screen and off-screen friendships are very important to me,” she said.
“Especially when you’re away from your family, friends become your family. Everyone faces problems in life, and you discuss these issues with your friends. Sometimes, their advice or perspective can help you find solutions. When you can’t solve something on your own or don’t have answers, sharing with friends can help you get the answers you need.In professional life too, if you face any problems or confusion, discussing things with friends can help. They often provide clarity and solutions. I find this really helpful because whenever I encounter professional issues, I talk to my friends, and they give me solutions that usually work for me,” she added.
She has two best friends in Mumbai, Sunil Patel and Khoosbu Kamal, she said, “They are very hardworking, disciplined in life, always motivate me when I am down, and always ready to help me. Most importantly, they are very good humans.”
Pooja believes that true friendship isn’t about meeting or talking every day. She said, “It’s not really important if we don’t talk every day. We catch up when we have time, even if it’s just once a week or less. The good part of this show is that we get one day off, which gives us time to enjoy our personal lives too.”
“I believe that distance doesn’t affect friendship. When we miss each other a lot, we just video call or talk on the phone. Even with their busy schedules and shows, my friends make an effort to stay connected. This is how I maintain my friendships,” she added.
On the set of her show, she is close to Jahnavi Soni (Chunnari), Anuj Kohli (Saransh), and Shamikh Abbas (Arvind). “We have a great, happy, and friendly bond. Of course, having a friendly environment at work affects your performance. If you don’t have good relations or a positive environment, it impacts your work too,” she said.
“For example, if there are conflicts or issues with people you’re close to on set, it can really affect your mood. Especially since my character is very bubbly and comic, I need to stay in a happy mood. So, for me, having happy moments is very important for my work and performance,” she added.
How has friendship contributed to your personal and professional growth? “Friendship has definitely contributed to my personal and professional growth. When we are teenagers or growing up, our friends and surroundings have a huge influence on us. That’s why it’s important to choose friends wisely,” she said.
“The circle you are in shapes who you become. If your friends are involved in negative things, you might be influenced by that. On the other hand, if your friends are motivated and have goals, you are likely to feel the same way. I always choose friends who are driven and focused on their growth. Friends are very important for both personal and professional development,” Pooja added.
