Not without my bestie

On the eve of Friendship Day, six popular best friends share their tales of camaraderie

Bose Krishnamachari and Sudarshan Shetty: artists

"I met Sudarshan after I graduated from Sir JJ School of Art. We used to organise many get-togethers, do film marathons and much more," says artist Bose Krishnamachari.

"I remember him coming to see one of my projects in Delhi with a big lens in hand. We started meeting each other often after that. When I moved back to Mumbai in 1995 and had my first big show, he generously hosted a party for me," says artist Sudarshan Shetty.

Bose Krishnamachar and Sudarshan Shetty

Krishnamachari is known for the legendary parties that would have writers, filmmakers, architects and artists in attendance. "His studio was an open house. I still find those conversations very valuable," says Shetty. "We have an organic way of developing conversation.

But I have even walked out of his studio! It's healthy," says Bose. Shetty adds, "People called us Tom and Jerry! But Bose has this ability to attract interesting people. And it has manifested itself in the [Kochi] biennale."

Naveen Richard and Sumukhi Suresh: stand-up comedians

Naveen Richard and Sumukhi Suresh

They are known to set the stage on fire when they perform sketch comedy. This synergy and trust probably stems from the fact that stand-up artistes Sumukhi Suresh and Naveen Richard are friends off the stage too. "She is the wind beneath my wings and I am hers," jokes Naveen.

They met at an improv workshop by Kaneez Surka in Bengaluru. The duo then worked on the popular sketch, Go Straight, Take Left. "My first stand-up show was with him. Every genre of comedy that I have tried, Naveen has always been there. Even for Pushpavalli [the web series they both star in], Naveen sat with us to edit the script that made it to the shoot. Every project that I do, Naveen has to be part of it because it adds value. Are you listening to me, Naveen?" says Sumukhi.

"It helps to work with friends. You experience emotional, personal and family stress, but when you are working with a friend, you can always unload on them before work, get into work, and unload a little more; we are the pillar of strength for each other," says Naveen.

Jérémie Horowitz and Mickhiel Pinto: restaurateurs

Jérémie Horowitz and Mickhiel Pinto. Pic Courtesy: CELLAR DOOR HOSPITALITY

Both own restaurants in the most buzzing food district of the city, Todi and Kamala Mills. But when a friendship goes back 17 years, it means that there is no bad blood. Mickhiel Pinto, director, Theory, and Jérémie Horowitz, partner at Cafe Zoe, met years ago when Pinto worked with chef Rahul Akerkar. They also had a common friend who was Horowitz's flatmate.

"We face similar issues. With Mickhiel, we know we will get full support on any issue. Not to mention, we enjoy frequenting each other's establishments and are always ready to give a pat on each other's back! Also, our restaurants have different concepts. This allows us to get suggestions on how to make both even more successful," says Horowitz.

"In a fragmented industry like we have in India, it's always nicer when you are a unified body that stands up to situations. We have a constant dialogue. Of course, a couple of drinks down at the bar, we have our debates, but they are always very healthy," adds Pinto.

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