It's easy to talk to someone every day, like every post, or attend a party on a happy occasion. The real test comes when life takes a sudden turn. When your pockets are empty, you fall ill, a major disaster strikes, or your family is going through a difficult situation, the true nature of many relationships is revealed. Acharya Chanakya also didn't associate friendship only with fun and laughter.
According to Chanakya's philosophy, a true friend is one who never abandons a person in difficult times. That's why this ancient philosophy of Chanakya seems to be very applicable to friendship even today. Let's learn about the six situations that Chanakya linked to identifying a true friend.

There is a famous verse related to friendship in Chanakya Niti-

“ O best of kings a relative who remains in the graveyard in times of distress famine and distress of enemies

The meaning of this verse is that only the person who stands by you through illness, crisis, financial hardship, fights with enemies, legal disputes in the royal court, and even at the crematorium deserves to be called a true friend or relative. This proverb means that the strength of a relationship is revealed not in happy times, but in difficult times.

Come to support you when you're sick, not to inquire about your health.
Often, a person needs the support of their loved ones more than medicine when they're sick. According to Chanakya, a friend who doesn't hesitate to inquire about your health, help, and be there for you in times of need can be considered a true friendship. There's a difference between simply sending a "get well soon" message and being there for you during difficult times. It's needed.

Don't abandon your partner in times of great adversity.
Difficulties don't always come unannounced. Losing a job, suffering a business loss, family problems, or a sudden crisis can shake a person to their core. According to Chanakya, a friend who, instead of staying away, listens to your problems and helps you find solutions can be considered a true companion.

Money
is the true test of relationships. When a person is financially capable, they have no shortage of people around them. However, during difficult times, many acquaintances gradually drift away. According to Chanakya, the person who stands by you with all their might in times of trouble and doesn't change their relationship solely because of your financial situation is truly trustworthy.

Defense against opposition or enemies
When a person is in an argument or faces intense opposition, much can be learned from the behavior of their friends. A true friend is not one who supports you in every wrongdoing, but one who will listen to you, tell you the truth, and if you fall, will provide the right support.

Don't shy away from legal problems.
Chanakya mentioned "Rajdwar," which refers to the government or judiciary of the time. In today's context, this could be interpreted as a legal or administrative problem. In such a situation, providing sound advice, maintaining trust, and helping in times of need are essential standards of friendship.

Standing by your family in their grief
The death of a loved one or a major family tragedy can be a very difficult time for a person. In such times, the support of someone who shares your grief without any pretense is more important than formal relationships.

PC: Rochak Khabre