Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner’s kiss proves that we need to normalise platonic displays of affection
In a world where endless sonnets are penned on the heady giddiness of romantic love, its platonic equivalent gets no flowers. Devoid of physical intimacy and yet able to fill in holes that messy romantic entanglements simply cannot, platonic love is a lesson in learning to love parts of yourself that you may have overlooked. The sizzle of a romantic encounter might be exciting, but have you ever felt the soul-deep satisfaction of being seen for who you are? It’s a romance all of its own.
It’s also a notion that Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner have found truth in, as two It-girls drawn to each other with their elevated knowledge of selfie angles—after all, few things can bond you together for life like making your Victoria’s Secret debut together. Today, if they are posing separately on the Met Gala steps, you’ll find them reaching out to hold hands with a conspiratorial we-are-totally-gonna-grab-burgers-after-this nod. Bump into them at the Vanity Fair Oscars after-party and don’t be surprised if you find them locking lips in a sweet kiss to celebrate their boundless love and appreciation for each other.
Closer home, similar displays of affection are not in short supply either. Childhood besties Alia Bhatt and Akanksha Ranjan have found their bond to serve as a grounding force in the vagaries of showbiz, and they like to show it by regularly cuddling up close for the ‘gram. Such is the power of platonic love that Ranjan was understandably inconsolable at her bestie’s mehendi ceremony. Elsewhere, sisters Janhvi and Khushi Kapoor have each other to lean on while navigating the glamour industry, and they like to express their appreciation by puckering up for the camera.
Unencumbered by the need to impress or please, platonic love offers the freedom to be yourself and receive the same honour in return. Beyond the throes of physical attraction, it thrives in a shared understanding of spirit and vision for life. While there are myriad ways in which love can manifest itself, and romantic love certainly has its place, it pays to take a note from Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner’s book and treat your friend as a lover. Take them out on a date, send them flowers at work, leave them thinking-of-you notes, watch the sunset together and if you ever find yourself on the red carpet of an Oscars after-party, smush those lips together to remind everybody else to do the same.
