Kochi: Conversations around love, dating, and modern relationships took centre stage at the session titled Arike Redefining Relationships One Swipe at a Time, held on Day 1 of the Summit of Future 2026 hosted by JAIN Deemed-to-be University, Kochi.
The session featured Zaileshia G, clinical psychologist, and Amarnath Sankar, writer, and was moderated by Midhila Jose, academician.
Speaking on contemporary dating culture, Zaileshia G said she almost envies Gen Z and Gen Alpha for the wide range of opportunities and choices available to them today. She noted that swiping culture has opened up multiple categories of relationships such as situationships. Dating, she said, is no longer a destination but an exploration, with experimentation and self-discovery becoming integral to how young people approach relationships.
Amarnath Sankar highlighted the importance of awareness while navigating modern connections. He said responding rather than reacting helps individuals make more sensible and conscious decisions. Dating, he added, is just the beginning, and even the process of choosing requires attention and intention.
Zaileshia also pointed out that social media has altered emotional expectations in relationships, often becoming a tool to measure love. When expectations are not met, conflicts arise. However, she observed that present-day relationships are becoming more defined, with partners communicating openly and setting clearer boundaries, including digital boundaries.
The session noted that new-age relationships are redefining boundaries, reflecting a shift towards more conscious, communicative, and emotionally aware connections.
