‘Delhi, being so judgmental, will never be accepting’: When Sahiba Bali compared the different dating cultures in the capital city and Mumbai

You know the age-old debate—Delhi vs Bombay. It’s more than just about food, weather, or traffic. It’s a full-on lifestyle difference. And if you’ve lived in both cities, you know exactly what we mean.

Turns out, even dating feels like a completely different world depending on where you are. Actress Sahiba Bali once shared her take on the whole scene—and let’s just say, she didn’t hold back.

Regarding how dating works in each city, Sahiba said: “So relationship, love life, dating culture in Delhi and Bombay are very different. I know people who are with someone but not with someone. I know people who [are] with multiple people—that’s Bombay.”

In other words, Bombay tends to be a lot more chilled out when it comes to dating, she says. People are open, non-judgmental, and okay with less conventional relationship setups.

“Why it works in Bombay is [of] course—Bombay is accepting,” she explained. “Like if I tell you something, you won’t be scandalised. You’ll be like ‘haan theek hai.’ And that’s what happens—from actors and directors, everyone knows. It’s a known thing.”

But try that in Delhi, and well… the reactions are a little different.

“If you try this in Delhi—Delhi being so judgmental will never be accepting,” she said honestly. “They’ll be like ‘haww!’ They’ll shame you. They’ll be like ‘ye kaise kar sakte ho’ and falana dhimkana. People in Delhi are so traditional.”

Sahiba’s words might hit home for young people who’ve noticed these differences firsthand. It’s not that one city is better than the other—it’s just that what flies in Bombay might raise eyebrows in Delhi.

She also touched on how men differ in the two cities: “Men in Delhi are more of a gentleman,” she said. “And Bombay is more of a chill, fun vibe.”

So, if Delhi gives you the old-school charm and big gestures, Bombay is more relaxed and goes with the flow. Either way, dating in India isn’t just about the person—it’s also about the place.

Sahiba’s take adds a fresh layer to the never-ending Delhi vs. Bombay conversation and gives anyone navigating love in either city a lot to think about.