An Indian woman residing in Australia has ignited a conversation online by reflecting on the contrasting ways people socialize in India compared to Australia. In an Instagram video, Smidha disclosed that her recent visit to Mumbai highlighted the financial aspect of socializing there, where gatherings often involve spending money at cafes, restaurants, or shopping malls.

“During my trip to India, I was astonished by how much I spent just to spend time with friends,” Smidha explained. She expressed a desire to explore the city and connect with people without incurring expenses, only to find that most plans gravitated towards venues that required payment.

“In Australia, I can meet friends at a park, take a stroll along the beach, enjoy some quiet time in a library, or simply relax somewhere without needing to buy anything,” she added.

This realization prompted Smidha to reflect on a perspective she had previously overlooked. Before relocating to Australia, she noted that she never questioned the norm of associating social gatherings with financial expenditure. “In India, if you want to meet someone, the first consideration is where to grab coffee,” she remarked.

She emphasized that the issue transcends just cafes and eateries, highlighting the scarcity of public spaces where individuals can spend time freely. “Many of our cities have evolved into places where being a customer is a prerequisite for simply existing in public,” Smidha stated.

Her video caption encapsulated her sentiment: “Saans lene ke bhi paise lagte hai,” which translates to “You even have to pay to breathe.”

This post has catalyzed broader discussions surrounding public spaces, urban design, and social interaction in Indian cities. Several users echoed Smidha’s observations, lamenting the lack of inviting, accessible locations for gathering without incurring costs. One commenter noted, “India severely lacks third spaces—no lakes, parks, trees, or other places to unwind.”