She Friendships: A Rare and Priceless Blessing

What does friendship truly mean? Is it simply sharing our joys and struggles, or is it about having someone with whom we can be our authentic selves, free of judgment and expectations?

Globally, stories of male friendships tend to dominate. Whether it’s Hollywood’s bromance narratives or Bollywood’s iconic tales of camaraderie, male friendships are widely celebrated. They are portrayed as uncomplicated, enduring, and essential. In contrast, the narrative around women’s friendships often takes a backseat. It is less explored, sometimes even dismissed as fragile or riddled with complexities.

Why is that? Why does “she friendship” seem more complicated or less valued?

Society places many expectations on women, especially after they get married or become mothers. These roles often come with the belief that a woman’s time and energy should revolve around her family. Friendships, particularly with other women, are often seen as less important. There’s an unspoken assumption that once a woman steps into these new roles, her personal connections can take a backseat. This perspective not only undervalues the importance of friendships but also limits the emotional support and joy they bring to a woman’s life.

Friendship is a universal bond that transcends gender, societal norms, and life changes. Yet, women often face expectations to let go of these connections as their roles in life evolve. Whether due to marriage or motherhood, the assumption is that women must set aside their friendships to fulfill new responsibilities. Meanwhile, men tend to maintain their friendships with ease, unaffected by similar pressures. In many cases, their circumstances even allow them more freedom and time to nurture these bonds. This contrast highlights a societal imbalance, where women are expected to compromise while men’s friendships remain a natural and uninterrupted part of their lives.

Today, the narrative is shifting. Women are more independent, confident, and empowered to make their own choices. They no longer feel the need to conform to societal norms that ask them to compromise their identities. Instead, women are embracing their freedom and redefining friendships on their own terms. These bonds are no longer shaped by roles or expectations but are built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and genuine connection. This change marks a new era where friendships are celebrated as an integral part of a woman’s life, no matter the responsibilities she carries.

Even with all the freedom and independence we have today, finding genuine friendships is still a challenge for many women. In cities, only a small number—maybe 5% to 10%—might say they have meaningful friendships. But it makes you wonder, are these connections truly real? Can we share our deepest thoughts without fear of judgment, or are these just surface-level chats, filled with casual gossip and small talk?

And among those few friendships, how many are truly selfless? Maybe just 3% of women experience that rare bond—where there are no expectations, no hidden motives, just pure support and trust. These friendships, when they exist, are the ones that lift us up and make us feel truly understood. They’re the connections we all hope for and deeply value when we find them.

Do you have such a friend?

I feel incredibly blessed to have a friend who knows me at my core. She has stood by me through life’s brightest moments and its most difficult challenges. When societal pressures or family expectations made it hard to connect with others, she remained my constant support. In times when I felt overwhelmed, she reminded me of my inner strength. When I lost my smile, she helped me laugh again. And in my darkest moments, she gave me the courage to keep going.

She has been my guide during the struggles of parenting and has helped me strengthen my relationship with my partner. In times of pain, she has been my healer, helping me rediscover joy and purpose. Her belief in me has given me the confidence to step outside my comfort zone and chase my dreams, always encouraging me to grow.

Her compassion makes everyone around her feel valued, and her kindness inspires those who know her to be better. With her, I can be my truest self, knowing there is no fear of judgment. Her generosity, whether through her time, love, or support, knows no limits. Even in tough times, her laughter brings light to every situation.

Without expecting anything in return, she has always been there for me. Her friendship has been one of the greatest gifts in my life, and for that, I will always be truly grateful.

Perhaps it’s time to rewrite the narrative and recognize that women’s friendships are not just about companionship—it nurtures our souls, helps us through life’s challenges, and reminds us of our own strength and worth. Cherish those friendships that empower and uplift you, as they are a true blessing.

–Archana Siddharth Akhepuria is a Reiki master, practicing Reiki healing and teaching for the past few years.