Is men paying on the first date a thing of the past?

Today's single women are setting fresh standards—expecting genuine connections, shared values, and a modern approach to chivalry that prioritizes safety. This International Women’s Day, Tinder in India celebrated “Her New Dating Rulebook,” highlighting how modern single women are reshaping expectations in the dating world.
Gone are the days of outdated fairy-tale promises and rigid gender roles. Instead, young women are embracing dating on their own terms. According to recent insights from the platform, 44% of female users in India are excited about meeting new people, 38% are open to new experiences, and 29% appreciate the reduced pressure of finding a so-called ‘happily ever after.’
Imagine a date where both partners meet at a quirky, independent café, bond over a recent art exhibit, and simply enjoy each other's company without pressure. When the bill arrives, they split it, showcasing mutual respect and modern chivalry. This is the new dating landscape, where respect, safety, and real connections take precedence.

Modern chivalry isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about consistency, respect, and equality. A recent in-app survey from the platform found that 51% of young female users believe keeping promises—such as showing up on time or following through on a planned call—defines modern chivalry more than traditional acts like opening doors. Additionally, 36% value being given full attention on a date over symbolic gestures, and 31% expect basic respect for all genders and identities. Interestingly, only 23% of young female users consider an offer to pick up the bill on a first date a must. This shift moves beyond traditional gestures to prioritize respect and equality. For 36% of young female users of the app, true modern chivalry means a partner who supports their career ambitions.
Safety as a Standard
For many young women, respect begins with how they are treated online. More than half of female users in India say they would unmatch someone if they received inappropriate messages, emphasising the need for digital etiquette. Profile authenticity is another crucial factor. More than 53% of young female users prefer profiles with clear, identifiable photos over a shirtless mirror selfie. Verified profiles are particularly valued, with 44% considering them essential for ensuring authenticity. Safety also extends beyond the screen—50% of female users believe that checking in after a date to ensure a safe journey home is a true sign of care. These evolving expectations reflect a growing demand for safer, more mindful dating experiences.

Women today are looking for more than just a surface-level connection. For 47% of young female users, an incomplete profile is an instant red flag, as they expect to see genuine interest and effort. Meanwhile, 37% prefer profiles with multiple photos that showcase personality, and 35% value shared interests and lifestyle. Additionally, 41% say they dislike bios full of clichés, favouring originality, genuine self-expression, and authenticity over generic phrases. In short, they're not just looking for a pretty face—they want a well-rounded profile that shows real compatibility.
With evolving attitudes towards relationships, young women in India are rewriting the dating playbook. The focus is no longer on grand, performative gestures but on respect, authenticity, and real connections. As more women embrace this new era, dating is becoming an experience that is not just about romance but about equality, choice, and self-expression.