Madhya Pradesh: Bollywood Buddies With Bhopal roots

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): As the country celebrates Friendship Day on Sunday, friends of Bollywood celebrities based in Bhopal said that fame, glamour and busy schedules have not altered their deep-rooted friendships. Bonds built decades ago remain unchanged, strengthened by trust, memories and mutual respect.

Despite their celebrity status, these stars stay connected with their old friends over phone calls, occasional visits and even attending each other’s family functions. On the eve of Friendship Day, Free Press spoke to some of them, who shared how time and stardom haven’t touched the essence of their friendship.

D Gopal Rao & Ashutosh Rana

Businessman D Gopal Rao and actor Ashutosh Rana became friends in 1985 as students at Sagar University. Rao was pursuing B.Sc. and Rana was in BA, later moving to NSD after a diploma in Performing Arts. “We shared the same hostel room,” Rao said.

They would often hang out at a chai shop near P&T Chouraha in Bhopal. “Whenever Ashutosh is in town, he stays in touch, visits home and never eats hotel food. Our bond hasn’t changed one bit,” says Rao.

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Anoop Joshi & Piyush Mishra

Senior theatre artist Anoop Joshi ‘Bunty’ and Piyush Mishra have been friends for over 40 years, since they met at Bharat Bhavan in 1985–86. Joshi was part of Rangmandal back then. “He is like an elder brother. I often take advice from him,” says Joshi.

When in Bhopal, Piyush prefers relaxed chats by Upper or Lower Lake, discussing books, plays and films. “After Mumbai’s pace, he finds it peaceful here,” Joshi said.

Faisal Saif & Aadil Khan

Shikara actor Aadil Khan and Faisal Saif, a builder, are childhood friends, though not schoolmates. They met through mutual friends and often revisit their old spots — Raju Tea Stall, Kamla Park and Caféchino at Jehan Numa Palace. “He’s younger but looks older, he’s so tall!” laughs Faisal. “Despite his success, our friendship remains unchanged. He’s still the same Aadil to me.”