Actress Manju Pathrose and Simi Sabu first met through a reality show and later became close friends. Their friendship has often been the subject of criticism and mockery on social media. Now, in a recent interview to a media outlet, Manju Pathrose has openly talked about the issue.

In the past, people would stare when a boy and a girl spoke to each other. Now, even when two women talk, they still attract the same stare. We have become a society that struggles to recognise genuine friendship for what it truly is, said Manju.

I only find time for my own happiness after taking care of all my responsibilities at home. But people don’t seem to accept that. Many make comments, calling me a lesbian. But being a lesbian is not an insult. People should be free to live how they want. I am not one, so there’s no need to call me that. And there’s no reason to stare at them in shock either, Manju said.

"I have told my son that if he ever has any doubts about his identity, he should talk to me, and I will support him," says Manju. "How can I not accept my own son? This is not a disability or a disease—the real problem is society's inability to accept it," she added.