Mumbai, Dec 20 (NationPress) Actress Ankita Lokhande expressed her heartfelt gratitude for celebrating her birthday surrounded by her chosen ones. The participant from 'Laughter Chefs' took a moment to contemplate the distinction between friendship and a deeper bond. She articulated that while friendship is a divine gift, a bond is something we cultivate through our own dedication and effort.

In a series of photos shared on Instagram with her dear friends and her husband, Vikas Jain, Ankita noted, "Friendships and bonds are two very different blessings in life."

She elaborated, "Friendship is a gift from God, something pure and effortless. However, bonds are formed through our own endeavors—built with time, love, effort, and intention (sic)."

Reflecting on the significance of true friends who remain by our side during both joy and sorrow, she remarked, "Often, we overlook how profoundly relationships and friendships influence our lives. In joyous moments, only a select few genuinely step forward to share that happiness. And in times of sorrow, only a handful choose to be present and supportive."

Ankita shared her appreciation for having discovered her chosen family in Mumbai, with whom she can share both her joy and silence.

"I feel incredibly thankful that in a bustling city like Mumbai, I found my chosen people—individuals with whom I can share my happiness and quiet moments, my laughter and my tears. Each one of you who came to celebrate me and my day so beautifully reminded me of the richness of life," the 'Pavitra Rishta' star expressed.

She further thanked her friends for making her birthday memorable, even in her husband's absence.

Ankita continued, "Thank you for making my birthday so special. I will always cherish this love. When people say friends become family, you all have proven it. Even when Vicky wasn’t around, you showed up—for me, for my happiness—so I wouldn’t miss a single moment."

Looking ahead, she expressed optimism for the upcoming year, stating, "With this, I gently close the chapter of 2025—grateful, fulfilled, and humbled. Eagerly anticipating 2026: another blessing, another presence, another success, and a new story waiting to unfold. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Happy birthday to me."