In a refreshing take on modern relationships, actor and musician Saba Azad has opened up about maintaining a deep, platonic bond with her former partner, Imaad Shah. The duo, who first met over a decade ago, have chosen a path less travelled, transforming their romantic connection into an enduring friendship they describe as family.
A Bond That Evolved, Not Ended
Saba Azad recently shared insights into her unique equation with Imaad Shah, describing him as the most gentle and calming influence in her life. "I'm very highly-strung. He balances me out. Everyone needs a bestie who brings a soothing energy in your life," she explained in an interview dated December 29, 2025.
Echoing her sentiment, Imaad Shah reflected on Saba's vibrant personality, noting her versatility and deep connection with her emotions. He affectionately compared her to "cute animals" from cartoons, highlighting the playful foundation of their bond.
The transition from partners to friends was a natural progression for them, despite external advice. Imaad recalled, "I remember when we split up, a lot of our friends were saying that maybe we shouldn't meet each other for a while." However, for the pair, it felt more like an evolution to another stage rather than an ending. The slow-burn nature of their separation meant that by the time the romantic chapter closed, it wasn't marked by significant heartache.
Platonic Love: Safer and Stronger?
Saba Azad passionately defended their choice to remain integral parts of each other's lives. "It transformed. It didn't feel like a loss," she stated. She posed a poignant question: "Unless someone has really treated the other person very badly, when you have loved someone once, how do you stop loving them?"
For her, the answer lay in transformation. The romantic love morphed into a beautiful, secure friendship. "In fact, it's so much safer than a romantic relationship, because there is no fear of loss. Platonic friendships last so much longer, and with him, it's truly like family," Saba elaborated.
Her resolve is clear and defiant against societal norms. "There is no way I'm not going to have this man in my life. I'm not going to copy and paste somebody else's idea of what is correct for my life," she asserted. Their mutual clarity from the outset—to be friends forever and grow old together—has been the cornerstone of this successful transition.
Can Exes Really Be Friends? A Psychologist's View
The story of Saba and Imaad raises a universal question about the possibility of healthy post-relationship friendships. Sonal Khangarot, a licensed rehabilitation counsellor and psychotherapist at The Answer Room, provides a professional perspective.
"As a psychologist, I believe staying friends with an ex depends greatly on the attachment style, emotional maturity, and past history shared," Khangarot explains. She emphasises that if the relationship concluded with clarity, both individuals have processed their emotions, and healthy boundaries are respected, love can genuinely evolve into a form of care.
However, she warns of pitfalls. When lingering feelings, dependency, or blurred boundaries exist, attempting friendship can reopen old wounds instead of providing closure. The key, according to her, is brutal honesty with oneself and the other person to ensure the new dynamic fosters growth, not confusion.
Building a New Platonic Framework
Maintaining a healthy friendship with an ex requires treating it as a completely new relationship. Psychologically, it demands clarity, emotional maturity, and a respect for each other's individual growth journeys. Khangarot suggests a clear roadmap for those considering a similar path:
- Set clear boundaries to avoid overlapping with past romantic roles.
- Allow ample time to heal before attempting to redefine the relationship.
- Practice open communication about expectations and comfort levels.
- Respect new relationships that either person may enter, giving them space.
- Stay aware of emotional triggers linked to the past.
- Focus on building companionship, not dependency.
Saba Azad and Imaad Shah's friendship, which began when they met auditioning for Delhi Belly and strengthened through shared theatre work and their band Madboy/Mink, stands as a testament to this conscious effort. Their story challenges conventional break-up scripts, offering an alternative narrative where love's form changes, but its essence remains.
