How I Met My Soul Sister

International Women’s Day Special

We all go through life trying to find that one person who’ll stand by us no matter what. For some, that kindred spirit happens to be their partner. But sometimes, if you’re lucky, you’ll see that the person you’ve always been looking for, has been standing next to you all along!

Watch out for- quiet support, saucy gossip over drinks, or even a volley of creative cusses directed at the man who broke your heart; for all these hint that your soul sister is near!

Little Riddhi Mehta loudly declares that she has found her forever friend in Saloni Vohra.

As the two six-year-olds share a tight hug, Saloni’s mother Sneha explains that the girls were found munching on sand one day in the school sand-box.

Sharing a mutual love for Looney Toons, crayons and (of course) sand; the two have been inseparable ever since.

Indeed, childhood is when a lucky few of us build friendships that last us a lifetime. Leena Bhati is one such gal who found her friend and mentor the day she was born.

“Navigating life’s twists and turns are no biggie when I know I have my strongest supporter forever in my corner,” explains Leena touching upon the bond she shares with her mother- Bharti.

“My youngest daughter has been an immense support and source of joy for me. She’s my greatest friend,” beams the proud mum. These days, the two are busy planning a getaway together ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’ style.

Back from just such an estrogen fueled, uber fun trip are Priya Raheja and Aarti Chetwani. Sharing a Sindhi connection, the two happened to bond over a tough batch of Science homework some 15 years ago.

The former classmates are 26 now. Aarti is married while Priya is enjoying her days as a free bird while juggling a demanding career. “Knowing Aarti is just a phone call away when I’m having a bad day, keeps me sane,” she admits with a grin.

Fret not if you haven’t yet found your soul sister for she may just be waiting for you…

Benu Srivastava (62), agrees, sharing that she met the woman who would go on to become her best friend when she least expected it. “At the time of my wedding, I was hoping I’d found my soul mate. But I found so much more! I am an incredibly spiritual person, and there is no doubt in my mind whatsoever that we are twin flames. She just understands me on a level that no one else ever has.”

It’s true, for her soul sister came in the form of her sister-in-law- Veena Srivastava (68). It’s been 40 blissful years and the two sexagenarians are still going strong..!

Aditi Balsaver