I have nothing to do with a third person. If I approach her, it shows my weakness and that is something I would never want. Why should I give someone the satisfaction of knowing that her influence is causing problems?" she asks.

Former Miss India-World Shruti Sharma, however, believes in the power of reverse psychology.

"I would definitely not ignore her or be nasty. Instead, I would befriend her; be really nice to her and then put her in the same spot," she reveals.

Shruti suggests that the best way to deal with a situation like this is to be the ideal 'girlfriend' - don't nag your man and stay away from fights. Ultimately, he has to be intelligent enough to know what's good for him.
Shruti Shrama

As she puts it, "Why justify yourself and get angry? I would rather be the ideal girl and have the last laugh."

Psychiatrist Dr. Nirmala Rao, founder-director of Mumbai's Aavishkar Centre for Self Enrichment shares her views. According to her, it is important for women to understand the dynamics of their partner and learn to let go.

"Yes, be assertive and tell him that you don't like what is going on but don't nag. Deal with the situation in a mature manner."

It is her contention that a relationship weakens if a woman expresses her anger. Every man has different needs and his relationship with his partner depends on how he views her.

"Ultimately, you cannot satisfy all his needs," she says. She advises women to show restraint and continue to treat their men as friends. "Be civil."

Dr. Nirmala concludes, "And whatever you do, don't ever ask his friend to back off, it will only make matters worse."