Article Today, Hyderabad:
Urban relationships among young people are taking a troubling turn. After openly embracing live-in partnerships, a section of city youth has now moved towards what is called “hush dating”. These are secret relationships carried out without public knowledge, social acceptance, or family awareness, raising serious social and moral concerns.
Secrecy as a Lifestyle Choice
In hush dating, couples make a conscious effort to remain invisible. There are no public outings, no shared photographs, and no social media presence. Even close friends are kept unaware. What is described as privacy is, in practice, a system built on secrecy and deliberate concealment.
A Spreading Urban Culture
This pattern is no longer limited to Hyderabad. Similar behaviour is visible in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam. Professionals in IT firms and startups are often associated with this trend. While career focus is cited as the reason, critics argue that it reflects growing disregard for social responsibility.
Avoiding Families and Questions
One major reason for hush dating is the desire to escape questions from family and society. Queries about marriage and commitment are seen as pressure. To avoid them, many young adults hide their relationships, often misleading their parents. This has created a serious trust gap within families.
No Labels, No Accountability
These relationships are kept without names or definitions. There are no clear commitments and no shared responsibility. While this makes separation easy, it also increases emotional harm. When problems arise, there is little room for dialogue or resolution.
Digital Silence by Design
Unlike earlier generations, hush dating avoids digital footprints. There are no messages on common platforms, no public chats, and no visible interactions. Meetings are planned in isolated places or in other cities to avoid recognition. This calculated silence reflects fear of social exposure rather than confidence.
Economic Freedom, Ethical Decline
Financial independence has enabled this behaviour. With stable incomes and personal mobility, young adults feel less answerable to families. Personal comfort and freedom are prioritised, while commitment and stability take a back seat.
Emotional and Social Risks
Though convenient, hush dating carries emotional risks. The lack of clarity and recognition often leads to stress, insecurity, and emotional damage. Experts warn that such hidden relationships, when they collapse, can result in severe personal and social consequences.
What it Says About Society
The rise of hush dating signals a deeper shift in values. Commitment is weakening, honesty is compromised, and separation is treated casually. Observers note that relationships built on secrecy, whether hidden or open, cannot offer peace or stability. Without responsibility and truth, such bonds remain fragile and destructive.
