HYDERABAD: Have you ever thought of renting a friend or paying for an evening of companionship and harmless banter? A US based internet entrepreneur recently launched a website where anyone can hire a friend for 6.50 dollars an hour. Apart from hanging out, going to a restaurant and for a movie, it offers other services like teaching manners, snowboarding, family functions. The site already boasts of 2000 members and assures that the services are strictly platonic. The popularity of the website proves that the concept was received well. However, will such websites and services be popular in India?
“The whole idea of it being platonic is very dubious. I am a part of a social networking site for travellers across the globe and idea of meeting a fellow traveller over a cup of coffee is often misconstrued. The same can apply for this website,” points out Ruthu Sreebashyam, an advertising professional.
Additionally, not many people are comfortable with the idea of hiring a friend. Sharing the same comfort level and seeking help in times of crisis might not be fulfilled with the services rendered through the website. “The whole idea of hiring a friend is so skewed. The idea of friends having a positive influence in your life and trust loses its significance with such a concept. It also raises pertinent questions about the rising level of alienation and loneliness that people are facing,” explains Arnab Soni who is a student scoffs off the idea of such a website adding that it might turn into another dating site.
Though the sceptics are many, people like Samyukta Neogi a teacher believes that websites like these will help people with low social skills to come out of shell and eventually boost their self esteem. “I don’t see the harm of talking to someone without any attachment. It will really help people who are new in the city and do not have any friends,” she adds. Though conflicting opinion are many, the concept is innovative and going by the popularity of dating and social networking sites, this website is sure to grab the eyeballs.
sohini@expressbuzz.com