- By Deeksha Gour
- Fri, 14 Feb 2025 10:29 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Bengaluru News: Bengaluru residents were taken by surprise after posters advertising a “Rent A Boyfriend” service appeared in various parts of the city. The unusual advertisements, which claim to offer a boyfriend for a day at Rs 389, have sparked mixed reactions among locals.
One such poster was spotted in Jayanagar, featuring a QR code and the tagline, “This Valentine’s Day, Rent A Boyfriend, Scan Me.” Similar advertisements have also been seen in areas like Banashankari and BDA complexes, drawing significant public attention.
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The idea of renting partners is not new and has been popular in countries like Japan, China, and Thailand for several years. In India, such services have been gradually gaining traction, especially around occasions like Valentine’s Day. While some people seek rented companions to attend social events or combat loneliness, the concept has also drawn criticism.
Following the emergence of these posters, many Bengaluru residents expressed concern, calling it an attack on cultural values. Several people took to social media, particularly X (formerly Twitter), tagging Bengaluru Police and demanding strict action against those promoting the service.
This is not the first time India has witnessed such offerings. In 2018, a platform named “Rent A Boyfriend” was launched in Mumbai, Maharashtra, even advertising job openings for men based on physical attributes. By 2022, similar services had spread to Bengaluru and other major cities.
The growing popularity of rented companionship services has sparked a debate on shifting societal norms in India. While some view it as a modern solution to companionship, others see it as a cultural disruption.
