Swipe culture sparks mixed reactions among youth

As digital dating apps gain popularity in City, young adults navigate the shifting landscape of relationships, sparking both excitement and skepticism

- RESHMI YADAV, OP

The digital dating wave sweeping across India has firmly reached Bhubaneswar, with a growing number of young adults exploring apps like Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, and OkCupid. As smartphones and internet access become increasingly affordable, Odisha's Capital city is witnessing a noticeable cultural shift—one that's both embraced and criticised.

India's dating app landscape has exploded in recent years. With over 1,700 platforms now active, ranging from casual flings to serious relationships and even matrimonial-style matchmaking, youth in cities like Bhubaneswar are navigating a world their parents never imagined.

According to Forbes India, homegrown apps have seen a meteoric rise, growing from under 10 per cent market share in the early 2010s to nearly 50 per cent today. Their edge lies in understanding Indian sentiments—something international apps often miss.

But in Bhubaneswar, opinions are divided.