Getting cozy in Dehli

March 4, 2019 -

“Young and looking for a place to get cozy with your lover?.......” - Sushant Sharma

We came across a blog called “Insight India” which of all things presented the top five ‘Make out’ places to go for young people in Delhi. India is a conservative society with strong social mores. “Dating” in the western sense is not looked upon favorably. Public displays of affection, even the most benign, can be met with confrontation and a considerable tongue lashing often by complete strangers. If you are young and want to go out together you have to be creative to avoid facing the volcanic wrath of your parents.

Want to go for a swim?

We first noticed this pattern on some of our excursions. We would be visiting and ancient fort or tomb and there in the secluded alcoves would be young couples. Often dozens of them. They were shyly trying to enjoy each other’s company and would quickly avert their eyes when we walked by.

We also noticed it at an upscale bar we were in last night where we had dinner. The bar was completely filled with men. Not one woman in the bar. (No, it was not a gay bar. At least, I think it wasn’t). It is hard to date in India.

This is a direct quote from the article, “So what do the average, desperate Delhi couples do to, well, “nurture the flower of love”? Easy sleazy, they visit any of the several notorious couples’ parks in Delhi and indulge in uninhibited, unabashed celebration of their emotions!”

The article goes on to describe where the parks and monuments are located, risks of getting caught, police patrols, etc.

The photograph at the title is from Buddha Park in central Delhi. We took a walk there after visiting nearby Embassy street. We later found out it is the number one rated park for couples to go visit according to the article. We saw dozens of couples sitting on benches enjoying a few moments of intimacy in this insane city.