They have known each other since 2016, and actors Mithila Palkar and Prajakta Koli say the key to their rock-solid friendship is its “easygoing” nature. “We don’t mince our words with each other. That is the ease and comfort we share,” says Koli, 30.

The actors met for a photo shoot where both were “very awkward while posing”, which helped break the ice. One thing that used to surprise them initially, but “doesn’t anymore”, is how similar they are. “We often end up saying the same things or react to things in the same manner!” Koli adds.

Despite being “pitted against each other” constantly, Palkar (30) says they’ve never thought of each other as “competition”. She adds, “In fact, we are each other’s loudest cheerleaders. Often due to work, we aren’t able to meet. But, industry events become a good opportunity for that. That’s is a big plus of being in the same industry.”

While “trust and loyalty” are the most important to both, one thing they hold dearly is the freedom to be themselves around each other. “In my friendship with Mithila, I got clarity that I can show all sides of myself — the good, the bad and the ugly.” And this is why, she adds, their time together is so special. 

“Aisa kabhi nahin hua ki hum mile, lunch ya dinner kiya aur nikal gaye. When we meet, either I end up staying at her house or she stays at mine,” she wraps up.