When Vijay Deverakonda opened up about the kind of partner he desires: ‘I’m quite a needy guy’

Stressing that everything is better when shared, he told Mana Stars: “Like food is better when you share it with someone or a moment is better when you share it with someone. Laughter is better when you share it with someone. So, everything is better when shared. You need to find the right person to share these things with. I’m quite a needy guy. I need to be taken care of.”

Can there really be an ideal partner?

The idea of an ideal partner is often romanticised, but in reality, it is less about perfection and more about alignment, said Dr Chandni Tugnait, MD (A.M) psychotherapist, coach and healer, founder and director, Gateway of Healing.

“Alignment in values, emotional depth, and the ability to navigate life’s complexities together. Beyond surface-level traits, what truly defines an ideal partner is their capacity to create a relationship where both individuals can evolve without fear of judgment or stagnation,” said Dr Tugnait.

Here’s what one would look for in an ideal partner

Emotional fluency over control: A great partner doesn’t just listen; they understand emotions deeply. Instead of dismissing or controlling feelings, they acknowledge, validate, and create a space where emotions are freely expressed without fear of judgment.

Challenge, not competition: Healthy relationships thrive on growth, not rivalry. An ideal partner challenges you to evolve but never competes to prove superiority. They celebrate your wins as their own and push you toward personal success without resentment.

Who is an ideal partner? (Photo: Freepik)

Adaptability over rigidity: Life is unpredictable, and so are relationships. A partner who embraces change, rather than resisting it, helps navigate life’s uncertainties. They remain open to new experiences, perspectives, and adjustments that strengthen the relationship.

Effortless silence, deep presence: Beyond words, genuine connection lies in comfortable silence. A partner who doesn’t rush to fill gaps with noise but makes their presence felt deeply creates an unspoken sense of belonging.

Resilience over romanticism: Fairy-tale love stories fade; resilience is what sustains relationships. An ideal partner faces challenges head-on, working with you rather than withdrawing or seeking escapism when things get tough.

Boundaries with warmth: Love is not about saying “yes” to everything. “A strong partner knows when to set and respect boundaries with kindness, ensuring that both individuals feel emotionally safe and valued,” said Dr Tugnait.

A partner, not a project: Love is about mutual growth, not fixing someone. An ideal partner is already whole; they don’t expect you to heal their wounds, nor do they attempt to “fix” you into their version of perfection.