Love

What was your first encounter with love like?”⠀

“I was 10 when I had my first crush. He was the most popular boy in class and all the girls had a crush on him. I was an awkward kid, so there was no question of telling him. I was also at that age when girls and boys don’t know if they like or hate each other, so it was quite funny!⠀

At 14, I had my first relationship. My friends told me he liked me and then he asked me out. He was the only guy in our grade who had a deep voice, and I was like, ‘This is the one for me!’ Yep, true story, as a teenager it’s really as simple as that.⠀

We’d go on movie dates, hang out at each other’s place; both our parents were super chill. On special occasions, we’d write cards and save pocket money for gifts; it was really sweet. ⠀

And we talked endlessly on the phone. I remember my mom would say, ‘Abhi to school mein ek saath the, where do you find more things to talk about?’ We dated for 3 years and it was super fun.⠀

You know, everyone disregards childhood relationships as infatuations but in the moment it feels so real, right? Because however childlike, it is a form of love.”⠀

“And after that? What did love look like as an adult?”⠀

“As an adult love has become more about learning together and companionship. I’ve dated some great people and I’m still friends with most of them. When you love someone, a part of you always cares for them so it’s easy to be friends.”⠀

“That’s beautiful! So what’s your take on relationships today?”⠀

“If I were to think of an ideal relationship it would be with someone who’s as curious about life as I am. At the end of the day love is love in all shapes and forms and I'm glad we live in a world that’s starting to be empathetic to that reality.”⠀

“What do you hope to find in a partner now?”⠀

“If I were looking, it would be someone who has the hunger to better themselves, someone who challenges me. Definitely someone who loves food, cinema and music as much as I do. I think if you find someone whose eyes light up for the same reasons yours do, then it’ll be a happy ride.