Love in India: Real Feelings, Simple Words, Timeless Traditions
When you think of love in India, you might picture grand weddings, colorful rangoli, or a shy glance across a crowded market. But love is also in the small things – a line from a favorite poem, a shared cup of chai, a text that says ‘I miss you.’ This guide breaks down what love looks like in everyday Indian life, why certain customs matter, and how you can borrow a few ideas for your own relationship.
Everyday expressions of love
Most Indians don’t wait for a special occasion to tell someone they care. A quick ‘Maine tumhe yaad kiya’ (I missed you) over WhatsApp, a handwritten note slipped into a lunch box, or a favorite song played on a phone speaker are all normal ways to show affection. Poetry is a favorite shortcut – short verses from Kabir, Mirza Ghalib, or modern lyricists are often quoted in texts. Try copying a line like “Tum hi ho, jaan-e‑milki” (You are my life) and watch the smile it brings.
Food also talks. In many households, making a favorite dish for your partner is a love language. Whether it’s a simple dosa or a sweet gulab jamun, the act says, “I’m thinking of you.” If you’re not a cook, ordering from a local street vendor and sharing the meal works just as well—you’re creating a shared memory.
Traditional rituals that celebrate love
India’s wedding ceremonies are famous for their length, but the core ideas can be adapted for any couple. The ‘saat phere’ (seven vows) represent promises about loyalty, support, and growth. Even a mini version—exchanging simple vows in a park—can bring the same feeling of commitment without the big expense.
Another ritual is the ‘saat phool’ (seven flowers) tradition, where each flower stands for a quality you admire in your partner. Pick seven small blossoms from your garden, write a word on each (like ‘patience’ or ‘joy’), and give them as a bouquet. It’s a quick, visual reminder of why you love each other.
Festivals like Karva Chauth or Rakhi are often linked with love, but they also teach respect and partnership. If you want to celebrate, try a casual “fast together” day where you both skip dessert and then break the fast with a sweet treat. The shared effort feels intimate without the pressure of a formal ceremony.
Modern Indian couples also blend old and new. A video call with a favorite Bollywood song playing in the background, a virtual rangoli design made on a phone app, or an Instagram story featuring a classic love quote—all these mix tradition with tech. The key is staying genuine; if a gesture feels forced, it won’t land.
So, whether you’re texting a line from a poet, cooking a shared meal, or adapting an old ritual for today, love in India is all about simple, heartfelt actions. Try one of the ideas above this week and watch how the little moments turn into lasting memories.
