Less Spectacle, More Substance: Young Indians Are Redefining Romance

Grand gestures and dramatic declarations of love are no longer the cornerstone of modern relationships in India. Instead, a growing number of young singles are embracing "romantic minimalism," a trend that prioritizes emotional depth, consistency, shared values, and meaningful everyday interactions over extravagant displays of affection.

A recent survey conducted among 9,374 active daters aged 24 to 35 from urban, suburban, and rural areas reveals that nearly 53% of respondents prefer fewer but more meaningful romantic experiences. Additionally, over 38% actively avoid relationships that feel performative or overly focused on appearances. This shift, however, does not signify lower expectations from relationships.

Rather, many participants view it as a conscious effort to prioritize what truly matters in building lasting connections. For instance, 41% of respondents aged 25 to 30 emphasized that romantic minimalism is about being selective rather than settling for less. Qualities like reliability, emotional intimacy, and aligned life goals now outweigh material gestures and constant validation. Nearly 3,785 respondents highlighted the importance of valuing depth over display.

One 27-year-old participant reflected on this evolution, noting that while gifts and reassurances once defined romance, consistency and compatibility have become more significant with age. Lifestyle pressures also play a role in this shift. Over 22% of respondents from metropolitan areas cited burnout and hectic schedules as reasons for moving away from emotionally draining dating patterns, such as love bombing, ghosting, and mixed signals.

The survey also underscores the growing importance of small but thoughtful gestures. For example, 55% of women surveyed said regular check-ins mattered more than occasional grand dates with little follow-up. Similarly, 42% of men aged 30 to 35 expressed a preference for quality time over expensive gifts. Across Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 cities, respondents agreed that remembering small details and paying attention to individual preferences were more meaningful than elaborate expressions of love.

Romantic minimalism is increasingly being described as an approach rooted in quiet effort and mutual understanding. Researchers noted that the trend has gained momentum in 2026, shaped by economic pressures, heightened awareness around mental well-being, and demanding lifestyles. Six out of ten respondents above the age of 27 said they no longer associate a successful date with high spending, instead valuing shared experiences and emotional support.

These findings were part of a study conducted by the dating platform QuackQuack, shedding light on how young Indians are redefining romance in an era of shifting priorities.