For 52 per cent of respondents, it’s the simple ability to handle each other’s moods, that everyday emotional fluency built over time makes friendship such a strong base for romance
Across all age groups, there’s a strong belief in love that grows from friendship. Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: istock
Relationships are a mystery since the beginning of time because while some begin through attraction others start as friendships and one may never know how it all happens until it does between two people.
In its 2025 trend book, dating app happn has predicted the return of friendships blossoming before romance, and the trend is proving stronger than ever. Timed around International Friendship Day, celebrated on July 31 every year, the app's latest survey reveals that 43 per cent of Indian singles believe the best relationships begin as friendships, where emotional comfort comes first and chemistry follows.
Across all age groups, there’s a strong belief in love that grows from friendship. Nearly half (48 per cent) of singles over the age of 35 say they believe emotional safety and shared understanding lay the groundwork for romantic potential. Another 39 per cent say it depends on the connection, highlighting that while not every friendship evolves into love, the ones that do often feel more stable and meaningful.
So, what makes friendship such a strong base for romance? For 52 per cent of respondents, it’s the simple ability to handle each other’s moods, that everyday emotional fluency built over time. Another 28 per cent say friendships-turned-relationships feel more honest and less pressurising, while 19 per cent value the comfort of feeling seen and understood without needing to explain themselves. With so much emotional groundwork already in place, the data suggests that when the vibe is right and the crush is mutual, many are willing to take the leap, choosing to risk the friendship in hopes of something more.
Karima Ben Abdelmalek, CEO and president of the app, said, “There’s something deeply real about love that grows from friendship, built on emotional safety, understanding, and the comfort of being truly seen. More and more, singles are finding that the connections they crave already exist in their friendships. Since the launch of the relationship feature, friendship has become the fourth most sought-after relationship type on happn, chosen by 28 per cent of users.”
With emotional compatibility taking precedence over instant chemistry, more singles are discovering that the strongest romantic bonds often begin as friendships.
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