Global pop-star Taylor Swift is all set to hit another mark, but this time not with a broken heart. The 35 year-old American singer-songwriter, who recently announced her engagement to NFL player Travis Kelce, is all set to release TS12, her twelfth album– The Life of a Showgirl, on October 3. Ahead of her album release, while her fans globally are looking forward to knowing more about her life on the Era’s Tour and her blooming romance with Travis at the time, one of her exes has stolen the spotlight in India. Seven-time Grammy award winner John Mayer, infamously known as Taylor’s ex among Swifties has announced his performance in Mumbai at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse on January 22, 2026. Although the multi-Grammy award winning artists only briefly dated, the wounds of the breakup still run deep. Although Taylor Swift never confirms directly about who has inspired which song, her fans– Swifties– are quick to decode the easter eggs in her songs. So here are all the songs that are (if not directly) about John Mayer: Dear JohnDear John is a song from her third album ‘Speak Now’ in 2010. Aside from his name being directly mentioned in the title, the lyrics were very-specific and aligned with the timeline of her relationship with him.John had hinted and re-confirmed by expressing how ‘humiliated’ he was, when this song was added as a surprise song on the tracklist of Taylor’s Eras Tour. Would’ve, Could’ve, Should’ve This song was released after over a decade of her breakup with John Mayer, alluding to how the ‘bad-blood’ between the two was still cold. It featured on her 2023 album ‘Midnights (3 am Edition).’ Although the name of this song doesn’t direct to anything, the deep lyrics directly point all fingers to John Mayer. The strong and bitter lyrics–At nineteen, and the god’s honest truth was that the pain was heaven– nineteen, the age that she dated John Mayer. Other lyrics, such as, ‘years of tearing down our banners, you and I,’ recollecting the time they tore down each others’ posters at their concert post their breakup. These are the two songs that are confirmed (indirectly) to be about John, here are some other songs speculated to be about him The story of UsThis song also featured on ‘Speak Now’ is also speculated by fans to be about Mayer. ‘Now I'm standing alone in a crowded room, and we're not speaking and I'm dying to know,’ –Taylor has gone on record to say these lyrics were inspired by an awkward run-in with an ex at an award show and fans were quick to speculate it being about John Mayer, during 2010 CMT Awards. OursAnother song from the ‘Speak Now’ album that is speculated to be about Mayer. The lyrics with the physical description of the song’s subject was enough for Swifties to crack the code,’Cause I love the gap between the teeth" and "any snide remarks from my father about your tattoos will be ignored". SupermanThis song, again from her ‘ Speak Now’ album also relates to Mayer, however the lyrics are sweet and largely describe him in a good light. The songs' subject is described as ‘tall, dark and beautiful’, and insisting that, "He's not all bad like his reputation."
01 October,2025 12:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFestivals in India have always been about community and celebrations, but now they are also serving as a litmus test for dating compatibility. According to a survey by India's most popular dating app, QuackQuack, 2 in 5 singles use Navratri and Durga Pujo as a measuring tape for cultural alignment. These festivals are not just festive, but also an important checkpoint to assess whether a potential match can vibe with them, as well as their traditions, values, beliefs, and, of course, family expectations. The survey was conducted among 11,000 people across the country, from Tier 1, 2, and 3 cities. Participants, between 20 and 35, were randomly selected from various educational and professional fields to gain an overall understanding of the significance of these festivals in users' dating choices. QuackQuack's founder and CEO, Ravi Mittal, commented, "We run these surveys every year to enhance and update our platform according to consumer dating behaviour, and every year we note the festivities becoming a little more vital for daters as a deciding factor. In the online dating world, it's not just garba nights or pandal hopping; these nine days are the ultimate filter for shared values, respect, and love." Festivals: A compatibility filterNearly 32 per cent of daters from metros and suburbs revealed that they silently judge their match based on how they celebrate and approach cultural festivals. About 44 per cent of active daters who are between 22 and 28 years old, explained that a match who is too indifferent about these festivities is a no-go for them. For 4 in 5 of these respondents, it's not about the religious belief but rather the lack of sentimentality. 29 year old software engineer from Kolkata, Tuhina said, "It might seem petty, but I won't date someone who doesn't share the same love for Pujo the way I do. I mean, what if he doesn't care about coming home for the celebrations? No, that's not someone I wanna date." Fasting, feasting, and food compatibilitiesDifferent parts of India follow different eating habits during these days of festivities, and a huge divide among daters is noticed based on just that one choice. About 16 per cent of people who fast called it a dealbreaker to date someone who chooses to feast on these days. Whereas, over 31% of daters who commented the same last year changed their stance and also disclosed learning about cultural differences across the country, and how feasting is a big part of celebrations in several places. However, 37 per cent of men and women clearly stated that they would never connect with someone who mocked their food choices. Belief and boundariesThe survey showed a side not often covered; 14 per cent of men and 12 per cent of women below 25 shared that they have unmatched with people who were very rigid about rituals. 24-year-old Delhi techie, Suresh, said, "For me, respect is more than rituals. If I can respect someone's culture and traditional values, I expect the same from my match, even if we don't see eye to eye on the same." A family matter1 in every 3 daters above 28 years old said that around Navratri or Durga Puja, families gather, and so does the pressure to settle down. The app also saw a lot of traffic around this time, owing to the constant reminder of the 'ticking clock'. The app also quoted that they note a spike in matches, every year around this time, this year being no different. Most of these matches are to shield the "when are you getting married?" chorus at home.
25 September,2025 01:04 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSolo travel is no longer just a trend - it’s redefining how people, especially women, explore the world. According to a recent report by IntrCity SmartBus, India has seen a 135 per cent rise in solo women travellers between 2023 and 2025, while globally, women now drive over half of solo travel searches. Every year, World Tourism Day is observed on September 27 to celebrate the role of travel and tourism in our lives. The dating app called happn shares four reasons why people should take solo journeys as opportunities for both exploration and connections. Beyond the freedom of traveling alone, these trips open doors to love, friendship, and shared adventures. From destinations to connectionsMuch like in 'Eat Pray Love', where travel became a pathway to personal growth and unexpected bonds, today’s singles are using solo adventures to find more than souvenirs. In fact, 43 per cent of Indian singles believe the best relationships start as friendships, where emotional comfort builds first and chemistry follows. Travel, with its openness and sense of possibility, creates the perfect setting for these connections, whether it’s a conversation on a train, a shared table at a cafe, or a night of laughter at a local gig. Serendipity on the roadThink of the accidental encounters in films like 'Before Sunrise' or 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara', where strangers became companions and trips became unforgettable. Solo travelers thrive on these unplanned moments, bumping into someone at a landmark, getting lost and finding help, or saying yes to a spontaneous invitation. Dating apps like happn mirror this serendipity, making chance encounters more intentional, so those who might have crossed paths unknowingly can actually connect. Exploring cultures, creating connectionsThe most memorable journeys are rarely about ticking off tourist checklists; they’re about experiences that feel real and personal. Today’s singles are seeking hidden gems and insider tips, making travel about deeper cultural exploration. Meeting locals or fellow travelers can unlock these authentic moments - an unlisted food joint, a tucked-away street market, or a rooftop view that doesn’t make it into the guidebooks. These shared adventures transform solo trips into personal stories. Freedom without lonelinessSolo travel offers the freedom to explore the world on your own terms, but it doesn’t mean you have to be alone. Travellers can seek connection on their own terms, whether through a friendly conversation, insider tips from locals, or a spark of romance, blending independence with the comfort of knowing meaningful encounters are just around the corner. Karima Ben Abdelmalek, CEO and president of the dating app, shares, “Travel is about discovery, and at happn, we believe that includes discovering meaningful connections. Whether it’s friendship, companionship, or romance, we empower singles to define what they’re looking for and give them the autonomy to decide how their story unfolds. Solo journeys, then, become less about traveling alone and more about opening yourself up to possibilities that feel right for you.”
24 September,2025 01:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentLove doesn't always stay within the same age bracket. In modern dating, it isn't unusual to see a Gen Z dating a Millennial, debating whether the 90s were better or if it's just the nostalgia that makes everything seem happier than it was. Indian dating app, QuackQuack, revealed that a few years back, cross-generational dating saw a dip, but in the past two years, it has been quite the opposite, with more young daters treating age as a checkbox they are willing to skip. To understand what's pushing this trend, the app surveyed 7394 daters from Tier 1, 2, and 3 cities, between the ages of 20 and 38. Participants were selected from diverse educational and professional backgrounds to ensure a more comprehensive knowledge. QuackQuack's CEO, Ravi Mittal, said, "The rise in cross-generational dating indicates a shift in priorities among the modern daters. We are seeing more people base their matches on the mental age of a person than their real age." Metros vs suburbs - where does age-gap matter more?The app's survey revealed that users from metropolitan cities are more open to dating someone with a significant age gap when compared to suburban areas. In cities like Delhi and Bengaluru, 22 per cent of Gen Z users between 20 and 25 have matched with users 7 to 8 years older; some claimed older daters are more set in their intentions and are generally more caring. 16 per cent of suburban daters also matched with people beyond their age bracket, though the maximum difference remained within the 'safe' 3 to 4 years. Vibes or vintage - the debate continuesGen Zs and younger Millennials bring vibes to the table: the meme collections, new slang, and modern trends. Their older counterparts, on the other hand, are more vintage in their demeanor; from career advice, and endless "fun facts", to stability and an impressive knowledge of 90s music, they have a lot to offer too. 27 per cent of women between 23 and 26 said they enjoy the wisdom and maturity of older men, while 18 per cent of women above 30 revealed they prefer dating younger men for their energetic and spontaneous approach to life. It goes beyond romanceDating apps are no longer limited to dating; 2 in 8 people find connections that go beyond romance, and more than 25 per cent of these matches are noted to have a considerable age difference. Respondents, 27 per cent of women and 11% of men, explained that they might have matched with someone younger or older, intending a romantic connection, but the same age gap transformed the relationship into something more meaningful: friend, mentor, travel buddies, and more. Ajay (31), from Pune, said, "Cross-generational matches are not limited to romance. I sometimes match with younger people because I want to learn; I have actually once matched with a 25-year-old because I wanted to know what on earth is 'rizz'."
15 September,2025 07:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndia’s urban core is at the beginning of a romantic revolution, with lines being drawn between Tier-1 giants and Tier-2 risers. Modern love is shaking due to dating apps, changing social mores, and a dizzying onslaught of technology, yet a simple question cuts through the noise: who buys into the longevity of monogamy? Is the metro sophistication of Tier-1 ready to abandon tradition, or can Tier-2's small city sentiment stand the test of time against tech-driven temptation? In the blend charge for clarity amidst the churning disruptive change, dating app Gleeden, is also taking mass readings on India’s romantic pulse through a survey of over 1,500 respondents topped off by telephonic/data powered outlines pan-India, which indicates the story of fidelity and faithfulness is not nuanced at all. The metro monogamy-fast loveIf India’s biggest metros had a relationship status, it would be “It’s complicated.” According to the survey, 54 per cent of people in Tier-1 cities — like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad — still believe monogamy will remain the main relationship model in the coming decade. Meaning that a staggering 46 per cent is transitioning towards alternative, more flexible relationship models, or at least opening their mind to the thought of it.On the contrary, Tier-2 cities, where 62 per cent of respondents support the idea of “forever and only you". So while more than half of big-city respondents still back monogamy, there’s also a growing openness and empathy toward alternative, more flexible relationship models. Tier-2 vows, true love — stick a local label on itOn the other hand, in Tier-2 cities (Jaipur, Ludhiana, Patna, Kochi, Guwahati, and Indore) monogamous love is very alive and kicking - with 62 per cent of responders seeing the monogamous paradigm as the sole future for love. And yet 38 per cent are slowly changing their views, with 66% having done so in the last 5 years. Nevertheless, the majority of responders from tier-2 cities still believe the monogamous relationship pattern to continue to be the norm, suggesting that, while the residents of these regions have embraced the new technology and beliefs that accompany modernity, they still embrace the strong, even at times threatening, belief of “forever”. Open relationships, open borders – how ready are you to be different?The discourse of opening relationships, or others willing to consider non-monogamous situations, is not merely capitalist or metropolitan. On the contrary, when it comes to alternative relationship patterns, Tier-1 and Tier-2 are very much aligned: in fact, not only both clusters believe opening and polyamorous relationships would become more accepted by Indian society in the incoming future (54 per cent in Tier-1 and a whopping 64 per cent in Tier-2 cities), but also bet on open relationship to becoming the dominating relationship trend in 10 years or so (52 per cent in Tier-1 and 59 per cent in Tier-2 cities). And even though monogamy is, and will remain the norm - at least in the near future - both Tier-1 and Tier-2 are showing a cultural and generational push toward more variety in relationships especially as many people take a “wait and see” approach (24 per cent in Tier-1, 20 per cent in Tier-2), suggesting that the real “norm” will in actual fact depend on each couple’s choices. Overall, the contrast between monogamy and modern relationships isn’t as clear-cut as it seems—personal beliefs and conversations matter more than traditions or geography. Love across the digital divide - Technology tempts; but tradition sticks The narrative of technology is also hard to ignore, and especially in Tier-1 cities where infidelity, dating apps and digital temptation are commonplace. Still, tradition remains a strong undercurrent for the future. Overall, 69% of respondents believe technology has made infidelity easier—and the percentage is nearly the same in both Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities. Yet, despite this digital pressure, both groups still hold on to their traditional views, suggesting that monogamy may survive even against today’s temptations. Sybil Shiddell, relationship manager with the app in India, says “What we are seeing is an interesting shift in how urban and semi-urban populations perceiving loyalty in relationships; tradition and tech are tugging at the very fabric of modern love, but it's about couple conversations and not city size, that determine the fate of monogamy.” Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities are not in a “winner-takes-all” love-war narrative, but rather showing two distinct faces of Indian romance ending in shared beliefs. Tier-1 has cosmopolitanism and pace, challenging old norms and not erasing them, while Tier-2 has tradition alive but with modern temptation undeterred. Monogamy's fate will be determined by every couple’s unique negotiation around modernity and tradition, rather than geography. And the takeaway is not who "wins", but rather if everlasting values like love, respect and loyalty can survive and evolve without coerced exclusivity.
08 September,2025 03:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMovies are a timeless first-date classic, combining shared experiences, laughs, and a hint of mystery in the dark, and they continue to do so, according to a new survey. Conducted by dating app happn, nearly half of singles (44 per cent) see movies as the perfect first-date activity, while 47 per cent say it depends on the person. Only a mere 9 per cent prefer more interactive activities over the cinema. When it comes to the ideal movie date, singles are looking for more than just a film - it’s about the experience. While 40 per cent still prefer the magic of a traditional theater, 30 per cent prefer to enjoy the romance of open-air screenings or the nostalgia of drive-in movies. Timing matters too. 37 per cent of Gen Z are open to a movie on the first date, while 60 per cent of millennials prefer to wait until they feel at ease, showing how approaches to dating differ across generations. Beyond the setting and timing, the choice of movie itself plays a key role in shaping the connection between Singles. Rom-coms lead with 32 per cent, thrillers follow at 29 per cent, and horror appeals to 23 per cent, showing that singles value a mix of laughs, suspense, and even a few chills. Shared tastes can spark instant chemistry, yet many Singles believe that opposites can be just as exciting — showing that personality often matters more than preference. But connection isn’t just about the movie choice; it’s also shaped by how the date is experienced together. Checking phones or chatting during the movie top the list of red flags, while most Singles agree that a date disliking their favorite movie isn’t a dealbreaker. For them, the shared experience and chemistry matter more than identical tastes. When it comes to sparks of attraction, cinema continues to play a role, with dream crushes reflecting the kind of star power that captivates singles. Leading the list is Shraddha Kapoor (60 per cent), followed by Ananya Panday (21 per cent) and Simone Ashley (6 per cent), showing that cinematic admiration remains a vibrant part of the dating landscape. Karima Ben Abdelmalek, CEO and President of happn, said, “Movies are more than entertainment, they’re a way to bond and spark chemistry. With our Perfect Date feature, happn helps singles discover the best spots from the big screen to the open air, making every movie date more personal and meaningful. It’s about turning simple outings into shared memories that bring people closer.”
08 September,2025 02:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWith a mix of Millennials and Gen-Z, Indians are going through a unique evolution in dating and seeing how relationships are changing with each passing day. While the experiences may differ, the lessons are almost similar for many because love doesn't come with a syllabus and past years' question papers to study from to nail it. It is also the reason why there is a lesson even in failure, chaos, and awkward first chats. Indian dating app QuackQuack surveyed 9500 users, asking them to share the lessons and trends of the "chaotic classroom" that is modern dating. The result did not disappoint; from overprepped daters to teacher's pet syndrome, the participants revealed several trends that proved that all aspects of dating have something to offer; if not a relationship, at least a valuable lesson. The app's founder and CEO, Ravi Mittal, commented, "Modern dating is a crash course on life. Every wrong move, rejection, and love found and lost, offers insight that not just helps decide the next move but also shapes how people think, live, and love. This survey shows that daters are not just embracing these lessons, they are enjoying them." The study was conducted among daters from metros and suburban areas of India, ranging in age from 18 to 28. Respondents came from various educational and professional backgrounds, spanning IT, healthcare, law, finance, and more. The group also included business owners, startup founders, and individuals currently between jobs. Overpreppers33 per cent of daters over 25 years of age called themselves over-preppers in dating, drawing comparison with that one kid in school who studied every chapter. These singles revealed that they examine which message has yielded the best response, what icebreaker works the best, analyse questions to ask during the first chat, and thoroughly study their match's bio and interests. Funnily enough, they also shared that often their overprepping makes them more nervous than confident. Anshuman, a software developer from Delhi, jokes, "I prepare every time I get a match; down to the last T, I fully prepare for everything, and still, every single time, I find that the conversation just takes a different angle and I end up having to go impromptu. It's sad and funny at the same time. I would say spontaneity is much more fun, but I cannot help myself from overprepping." Teacher's pet syndromeIf you find yourself constantly seeking approval and craving validation, 28 per cent of Gen-Z dates from Tier 1 cities said that it might be a sign of Teacher's Pet Syndrome. The study reveals that 2 in 7 daters have this syndrome, characterised by constant anxiety over whether their text was received well, overanalyzing a simple "haha", double-texting, expecting a reaction to every comment, or repeatedly checking for a reply. Approximately 18 per cent of women and 11 per cent of men disclosed falling into the pattern, some even admitting to asking for feedback on how well they did during the first interaction. Most of these daters cited that dating is actually more enjoyable when you care less about brownie points and more about organically connecting. Open-book dating22 per cent of daters between 20 and 28 claimed that the simplest lesson is always the hardest to practice, and in this case, it's being an open book to their matches. 3 in 5 singles reported that when they were most honest with their match, the connection was the strongest. However, the same respondents also mentioned that it isn't easy being honest because it makes you vulnerable. Tarun from Mumbai said, "I guess teachers were right: honesty is the best policy. I stopped playing the cool boy and started being my awkwardly honest self, and finally met the love of my life. Up until then, my matches were just matches." RevisionSome daters never got out of their 'revision phase' since school days. But in dating, it is a bit more nuanced and might even be a hazard. About 12 per cent of male daters from Tier 1 and 2 cities confessed to revisioning past matches. It was almost always out of nostalgia, a craving for familiarity, and comfort; some explained that they went back for clarity and closure. But the biggest takeaway for at least 8 in 10 of these daters was that leaving the chapter was the best decision.
03 September,2025 07:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRelationships are constantly evolving not only around the world but also in India, where marriage is a sacred institution for the larger society. With changing dynamics in the way partners see each other, there is a lot more that people are realising, and aren't shying away from giving their relationships a new tag.For as far as we remember, monogamy has always been the norm, with weddings sealing it, families expecting it and public conversation treating it as a default. Renowned experts and researchers, sociologists and therapists have been pointing out the limitations of the monogamist paradigm for quite some time and starting offering different relationship options. When dating app Gleeden, in its most recent survey, asked the question, “Do you think society pressures people to be monogamous?” The answers received were quite interesting. Nationally, 61 per cent of respondents answered that staying in a fully monogamous marriage is an obligation imposed by societal pressure, whereas only 29 per cent of respondents believe that couples willingly choose to stay monogamous, and the remaining 10 per cent said they were unsure. Moreover, only 26 per cent believe that monogamy is natural and achievable, while 41 per cent state that it indeed goes against natural tendencies. These answers echo life experience from across cities, tiers and professions and tell us that a clear majority of respondents are forced into monogamy and are not choosing it willingly. This matters because relationship norms don't exist in a vacuum, they include dating, companionship, intimacy and discussions on inter-personal level. If most people feel steered due to family expectations, cultural scripts or public shaming, then "choice" becomes privilege instead of regularity. "People don't always choose; they inherit the norms. When family, culture and community push one script loud enough, one will follow it, without thought. Our findings reveal that exercising personal preferences still isn't easy in Indian culture as only 29 per cent of the respondents were exercising monogamy as a free will while 61 per cent of respondents are continuing their marriages due to peer and societal pressure. This pattern holds whether you live in a Tier-1 or Tier-2 city; challenging the year old norms of monogamous relationships and the charm of marriages," says Sybil Shiddell, country manager of the app. City size does not erase realitiesWhile the perception of monogamy is slowly evolving in parts of India, it’s important to keep in mind the pull of mandatory social obligation in both Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities. Larger cities have seemingly progressive cultures but the numbers indicate that even the smaller cities are also inclined towards the same direction. In Tier-1 centers like Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad, the results are stunning— with 63 per cent, 62 per cent, and 62 per cent of respondents respectively indicating that they are staying monogamous due to social obligations. Even Bengaluru, often branded as one of the most progressive cities in India, had a similar tally of 54% respondents who are maintaining their relationships due to societal norms, whereas about 33 per cent of respondents from the city are choosing to continue their relationships willingly. Surprisingly Kochi produced the most balanced stats for maintaining monogamous relationships with 46 per cent of respondents citing social obligation and 42 per cent indicating they chose to be monogamous on free will, determining a telling fact that seems to represent a more conscious change within the society. While the differences in the Tier-2 cities are even starker. Cities like Jaipur with 67 per cent and Guwahati with a staggering 75 per cent respondents admitting they remain monogamous due to family and society pressure. The same is the case in other Tier-2 cities like Ludhiana with 63 per cent, Patna with 58 per cent, and Indore with 59 per cent leaning heavily towards societal obligations over personal choices. What people do affects how they reactOccupationally, monogamy often feels less like a choice and more like a conditioned response due to family, colleagues, peers, and other wider occupational circles. The survey demonstrates that regardless of the work profile, societal norms do influence people, but the degree of influence varies with respective professions. The trend among men is clear. For example, business owners/entrepreneurs reported that 56 per cent remain monogamous because of social pressure whereas only 36 per cent choose loyalty willingly. Self-employed individuals are subjected to a higher degree of social pressure from their communities, which explains why 68 per cent indicate societal pressure, and 26 per cent voluntarily choose allegiance. However, private sector employees fall in the middle with 57 per cent choosing monogamy due to the influence of society, and 33 per cent voluntarily choosing to be loyal. Government employees are barely different with 58 per cent succumbing to the social pressure, and 32 per cent are maintaining relationships out of free choice. Unemployed men reported one of the sharpest shifts, with 67 per cent of them reporting to carry their relationships due to the influence of the society. For women, the comparative division is much more interesting. Self-employed women reflect the highest degree of compulsion to remain in relationships, with 75 per cent admitting to stay in their relationships because of social pressure. Business women and private job goers are following the norm with a slightly declined percentage of 66 per cent and 57 per cent respectively, whereas women with government jobs hold the highest percentage of discomfort with 88 per cent admitting to continue their relationships not out of love but societal pressure. As women become more and more financially independent, the more they are feeling constrained to live by a relationship model forced by society's imposture. On the other side, women who are still studying or are currently housewives - and therefore totally dependent on their breadbearer husbands - declared by 33 per cent housewives and 30 per cent students to have chosen monogamy willingly, most likely because they don’t have other options. These numbers are shocking and depict a society that screams for a change: however not a dramatic revolution, but rather a quiet shift where communication, trust and respect between partners widen the boundary of the couple introducing more freedom and personal space. Indeed something is already happening, as 35 per cent of married people admitted to having already opened up to their partner, and 41 per cent are happily ready to do it if their partner suggested it. If society wants genuine freedom of relationship choice, the data suggests we need to turn down the surrounding sound; decrease stigma, encourage honesty in communication, and allow people the right to choose freely for themselves without judgement. Otherwise, "personal choices" will just be a statistic for a few and not a way of living for the masses.
21 August,2025 03:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSports isn’t just about competition, they’re about connection. The shared rush of a win, the teamwork, the playful rivalry, all of it can spark the kind of chemistry that goes beyond the scoreboard. According to the latest data from dating app happn, the most attractive sports-related activities to feature on a user profile include bike riding, hitting the gym, football, gully cricket, and swimming - all of which signal energy, shared passions, and a zest for life. So, this National Sports Day, find more than one reason to give a sporty spin by simply swapping the usual date routine for one with a little more adrenaline, energy, and maybe a victory dance. What better way to combine that love for the game with a little romance than with a sports-themed movie night that skips the romcom cliche? Whether you’re watching from opposite ends of the couch or huddled under the same blanket, sports movies can set the mood for laughter, inspiration, and maybe even a few heartfelt moments. Here are the top picks for a game-time date: 1. MS Dhoni: The Untold Story - For cricket fans with a heart for journey and grit, this one’s perfect for a date where you can cheer for victories together and share stories of chasing your dreams. The emotional arc keeps things heartfelt, while the cricket sequences bring the adrenaline.2. Dangal - Where determination and family redefine strength. Watching the Phogat sisters’ inspiring journey is not only motivating but also a great conversation starter about resilience, ambition, and breaking stereotypes.3. Chak De! India – Teamwork, triumph, and girl-power in full swing. This film’s rousing moments will have you both fist-pumping and grinning, making it ideal for bonding over shared wins - on-screen and off.4. Mary Kom – Inspiring, unfiltered, and real. A knockout pick for couples who love stories of grit and courage, and maybe want to swap workout tips (or set up a joint training session) after the credits roll.5. 83 – Nostalgia, national pride, and a shared cup of victory. Reliving the 1983 World Cup win makes for a fun, uplifting watch, especially for sparking playful banter over your own favourite sports moments.6. Bend It Like Beckham – Cross-cultural charm meets football finesse. Light-hearted and fun, it’s perfect for a cosy date night that balances sport with comedy, romance, and a dose of cultural flavour. Karima Ben Abdelmalek, CEO and President of the app, said, “Sport and connection share more than just playbooks. Whether you’re cheering a cricket win or breaking a sweat together, it’s the shared experience that brings people closer.” This tells you that there is no need to limit your date ideas. Instead of the usual dinner-and-drinks routine, plan for a weekend where the locker room energy meets cinematic magic.
19 August,2025 04:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentLove comes in different ‘ships’ and sizes these days because gone are the days of single or taken, as the dating world is constantly evolving. A new survey shows that modern love is not defined by simple relationships, it's the world of infinite possibilities. Indian dating app QuackQuack's founder and CEO, Ravi Mittal, commented, “We are in the revolutionary age of dating; every connection made has a meaning today, and they are divided into bite-sized categories. It’s modern, it’s even messy, but it is still made of very real feelings. Relationships that don’t fit into traditional boxes are no longer considered meaningless.” The app surveyed 11923 daters from Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, all between the ages of 18 and 30. Participants were selected from different educational and professional fields, aiming for a more conclusive study. The poll found that over 57 per cent of daters have boarded some form of ship that isn’t the plain old relationship. Situationship: Not as toxic after allIn India, 2 in 7 active daters from Tier 1 cities revealed being in a situationship last year alone. They defined it as an undefined connection built on pure chemistry and confusion, with a hint of commitment issues. For long, situationships were considered a toxic pattern, only to be recently debunked as a more pressure-free connection, a trial relationship, as mentioned by several participants. Arun, a Mumbai-based photographer, said, “I travel a lot for work and committing is not really possible for me right now. I have been in a situationship with someone for a while, and trust me, it’s not toxic at all. Like I am committed to the idea that once I settle down somewhere, I will be exclusive with her, but right now, I still get to form a better relation with her, without the pressure of labeling it a relationship.” The Nanoship: Blink and you might miss itGen Z prefers to dip their toe in before diving, and nothing beats a 'Nanoship' for testing if a connection can hold its own. About 27 per cent of men and 33 per cent of women between the ages of 20 and 24 admitted to having been in a nanoship. They claimed that it can either end in a relationship or end because the vibes didn’t match, but either way, it never ends in bitterness. 24-year-old Tammy said, “I was moving to a different city, and I was ready to start a relationship once I settled there. So, I went on a few dates before, two of which ended in a nanoship, and that was the best way I learned that I do not like an overly clingy partner, or someone who expects to be in touch 24/7. The next one was a proper relationship, and it worked out perfectly.” Fanship: Crushing from afar18 per cent men from metros and suburbs admitted to being in a Fanship with a match for over six months. They explained the connection as a deep admiration, but from afar and without any interaction, mostly for the fear of ruining things. It is almost always one-sided. Pritam, a 28-year-old doctor, joked, “I am guilty of being in a fanship; let me tell you, it is mostly fed by delusion that everything will align and things will magically work out with this person. Reality is: it won’t, but it’s fun to hope and have that one perfect, and of course, imaginary, relationship amid all the chaos of life.” Microship: It’s fleeting but hyperDaters from metros over 25 said 'Microship' is often confused with nanoship, but there’s one key difference: the intensity of everything. It burns bright and fast, and the micro nature of the connection is often unintentional, but once the pattern is noted, daters become more cautious not to repeat the same. 3 in 7 women disclosed being in a microship at least once in their entire dating timeline, and it typically lasts somewhere between 1 and 3 weeks. The intimacy is accelerated; couples start trauma dumping by day two, or share their deepest secret by the end of the week. Sharing too much too fast is usually what leads to its inevitable demise, and the collapse of the microship becomes predictable with each late reply or sudden lack of interest after hours of chatting. Ananya (29) said, “It’s a very low-calorie commitment. Even with all that trauma bonding and closeness illusion, the commitment level remains at a bare minimum because you actually don’t know each other. Plus, it can get very overwhelming once you get all that information crammed in such a little time.”
18 August,2025 03:02 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentInfidelity in India is no longer a simmering taboo. According to the recent survey, physical infidelity has declined by a 16 per cent in the country since 2023. The "infidelity survey" conducted by dating app Gleeden with IPSOS as a research provider, has seen that only 48 per cent of respondents in 2025 reported cheating on their partner compared to 57 per cent in 2020. The continuing downward trend represents not just a behavioural shift, but an ideological shift as well. Indians are not necessarily being more faithful, they are simply more willing to deliberate about fidelity itself, the survey finds. "While traditional marriage historically meant total monogamy, couples today are questioning whether exclusivity is the only path to commitment. In this context, infidelity is being replaced with intentional conversations, clear boundaries, and redefined partnerships. Infidelity fatigue has set in. People today are tired of living a double life. They are leaning into radical transparency and redefined relationship models, whether that means ethical non-monogamy or open partnerships," says Sybil Shiddell, country manager of the app in India. Where monogamy lost its monopolisation of loveThe notion of monogamy as the premium model for love is no longer widely believed. Nearly half of the respondents in the 2025 study do not believe humans are built to be monogamous - with Gen X being the most persuaded (50 per cent disbelief). In fact, 61 per cent of people surveyed said society wants people to be monogamous, even if this runs contrary to their instincts. The social contract is changing, and the public is starting to realise that emotional safety and freedom can coexist. The clearest example of the social contract evolving is in the growing acceptance of open relationships. A surprising 69 per cent of respondents think that open relationships are becoming more acceptable in the society where 35 per cent of respondents confessed to being involved in open relationships already, while 41% said they would immediately agree to an open relationship if their partner proposed one. These are not casual encounters – they are well-thought through agreements with mutual obligations and respect. As Indian couples come out of secrecy and into conversations, betrayed loyalty is being replaced with negotiated independence. Cheating's no longer cool but consensual isThe fall in reported infidelity does not necessarily mean people are not exploring relationships outside of faithfulness - it simply means they are doing so more honestly. Instead of it being clandestine, it is becoming consensual. The language is shifting from "cheating" to "choice" and from "betrayal" to "boundaries". As more couples embrace sexual and emotional honesty, they begin to remove the need to deceive. Evolution goes beyond freedom, it is also about fairness. Women now constitute about 35 per cent of the app's Indian users, and they are not afraid to dive in. Women were found to be equally as likely to report physical and emotional infidelity (46%), but were also much more likely than men to define infidelity strictly. For women, emotional connection, chatty flirting, and simply fantasizing about someone else could be considered cheating, and this growth in self-awareness among women is creating demand for more emotions-based honest relationships - relationships that depend on no silent agreements under guilt. From "Happily Ever After" to happily honest The statistics are a fascinating counterpoint. Although 94 per cent of Indians claim to be happy in their relationships, and 84 per cent claim to be satisfied in their sex lives, only 25 per cent feel fulfilled in reality. The rest admit to feeling the lack of emotional connection, thrill, or communication. This disconnect has produced a cultural moment where increasing numbers of people are exploring alternative ways to fix their relationships instead of terminating them. An astonishing 60 per cent of married people would choose the intramarital affair over a divorce in a case of unhappiness in the marriage. Even more radically, 47 per cent thought infidelity could prove to yeast the passion of a monotonous union. Forgiveness is also possible - 62 per cent said they would seriously consider forgiving a cheating spouse in a one-time mistake, especially if the spouse showed honest remorse in the way they continued. The survey clearly shows an evolution from moral absolutism towards emotional realism. The future is fluidA declining infidelity rate in India does not mean a return to a traditional view of monogamy, it signals the emergence of something new. Importantly, this transition is not a return to moral policing but rather moral maturity. Almost 64 per cent of participants stated their thoughts surrounding relationships have changed in the last five years: 69 per cent, in fact, say open relationships are now more socially accepted, while 59 per cent think they may become the relationship model of the future. While we may still associate secret and scandal with infidelity in some spaces, it is obvious that couples are choosing clarity over chaos, curiosity over condemnation, and open dialogue over secrets. As Indians enter a new chapter of a relationship revolution, fidelity is no longer defined by restrictions, it is now defined by respect. Whether that is to stay monogamous, go polyamorous, or remain somewhere in between, perfection is now replaced by authenticity.
16 August,2025 05:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
