Manasi Parekh: Stories about friendship can remind us of the simple things that matter

National Award-winning actress Manasi Parekh believes films that celebrate simple, heartfelt emotions have a special place in today's increasingly cynical world. The actress, who is awaiting the release of her upcoming Gujarati film 'Mitrata: Friendship Ni Lovestory', says the story is a reminder of the enduring value of friendship.

The film, which also stars Viraj Ghelani, Deep Vaidya and Vishal Parekh, revolves around three friends and the bond that holds them together as life takes them through different phases. Its trailer, unveiled on Friday, offers a glimpse into their camaraderie, disagreements, shared experiences and the emotional journey that tests their friendship.

Speaking about the film, Manasi Parekh and Parthiv Gohil, producers at Soul Sutra, said that 'Mitrata' is built around a feeling that remains universal despite changing times.

"At the heart of 'Mitrata' is a very simple and universal emotion: friendship. In these cynical times, we need stories that remind us of the simple, beautiful things that still matter, and friendship is one of them," they said.

They added that most people have friends who have witnessed different versions of their personalities and remained by their side through the changes. According to the producers, director Oneel Karnik has attempted to bring that emotion to the screen through a story that combines warmth, humour and drama.

'Mitrata' also marks another collaboration between Parekh and the team behind the Gujarati blockbuster 'Jhamkudi', making the new project a reunion that is likely to add to audience interest.

For Viraj Ghelani, the film's central theme is particularly relatable because friendship often allows people to be their most unfiltered selves.

"Friendship is probably one of the few relationships where you can be your most unfiltered self, and that is what makes 'Mitrata' so relatable," Ghelani said.

He added that the film combines the banter and madness associated with close-knit groups of friends with quieter emotional moments that explore why such relationships become important over time.

The film has already generated interest through its music. The 'Mitrata Anthem', composed by Amit Trivedi, captures the celebratory spirit of friendship, while the song 'Tari Mari Dosti' has gained traction on social media, with audiences recreating its signature step with their friends.

Presented by Soul Sutra, 'Mitrata: Friendship Ni Lovestory' is directed by Oneel Karnik and produced by Parthiv Gohil and Manasi Parekh. The film is scheduled to release in cinemas on September 25, 2026.