Gen Z redefines dating with the rise of double dates

Dating is no longer a solo affair. Across India, Gen Z is embracing double dates, stepping into the social scene with friends by their side and reshaping how young people approach modern relationships.According to data from a recent survey of young adults aged 18–25, mentions of “double dates” in online profiles have jumped 65% this year, with women driving much of the surge. Conversations in group settings are also seven times more likely to lead to real-life meet-ups, reflecting a shift toward dating that feels safer, more collaborative, and — above all — more fun.“It’s never just about finding someone. It’s about having your support system with you, sharing advice, and stepping into the experience together,” said a young professional at a recent social mixer in Delhi.The trend is deeply rooted in pop culture. From Jai and Veeru in Sholay to Naina and Aditi in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, iconic friendships have long celebrated the power of having a trusted partner-in-crime. Today’s Gen Z daters are channeling that same spirit, whether for confidence, camaraderie, or just a shared laugh over awkward first impressions.The same survey found that 37% of young adults have already tried a double date, and nearly 66% are open to the idea.

Researchers say the appeal lies in building shared experiences, balancing safety with spontaneity, and fostering connections that feel more authentic.From the sitcom chaos of the ’90s to the rom-com energy of the 2020s, double dates have always had a place in popular imagination. Now, backed by data and cultural shifts, they’re emerging as a defining trend in India’s evolving dating landscape.Source: A July 2024 OnePoll survey of 18–25-year-old dating app users in India, combined with internal analytics tracking social dating trends through July 2025.