A man recently shared his perception of Bengaluru as the loneliest city he has ever lived in, despite maintaining an active social life. Harsh Snehanshu, founder of Cubbon Reads, expressed this sentiment through a post on LinkedIn, stating that loneliness prevails in Bengaluru, even among friends who are also feeling isolated.

Snehanshu has resided in various cities including Patna, Paris, Mumbai, and Glasgow, yet he claims none have felt as isolating as Bengaluru. He suggests that the urban environment itself contributes to this sensation rather than a deficiency of social interactions or activities.

Critique of Urban Spaces and Activities

The author elaborated on his viewpoint by suggesting that Bengaluru lacks visually engaging spaces. He states, “Fundamentally, there’s nothing to go see in Bengaluru. The city offers nothing to watch, just a lot of things to do.” According to him, the city thrives on constant activities such as visits to pubs, parks, and social gatherings, but offers limited venues for contemplation or tranquillity.

In comparison, he highlighted other cities—such as Delhi and Mumbai—where locations like India Gate and Marine Drive offer inhabitants the chance to pause and simply exist. He described the allure of these spaces, mentioning how the vastness of the sea or the historical richness of monuments enables people to engage in self-reflection.

The Nature of Social Interactions in Bengaluru

Snehanshu elaborated on the dynamics of social activities in Bengaluru, pointing out that popular venues often require active participation. He observed, “All of them demand conversation, disallowing you to sit with your thoughts and face existential doom.” This expectation for engagement can hinder individuals from discovering inner peace or experiencing moments of stillness.

He concluded by recognising the pervasive nature of loneliness, suggesting it stems from the city’s fast-paced atmosphere. Snehanshu also speculated whether people who grew up in Bengaluru perceive this loneliness differently than those who migrated to the city.

The post ignited varied responses on social media, with some users disagreeing and asserting that Bengaluru offers a wealth of visual and cultural experiences worth exploring. Contrarily, others found resonance in Snehanshu’s perspective, arguing that the city’s identity as a hub for migrants often prioritises work and ambition over introspective moments.

Moreover, a segment of respondents appreciated the reframing of loneliness, considering it not merely a deficiency of relationships with others but as a disconnect with oneself. This view encouraged discussions on the deeper aspects of human connectivity and self-identity in a bustling urban landscape.

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