Feeling Lonely in Mumbai? You're Not Alone

aisha · 5 min read · 2026-01-26

Mumbai - 20 million people, and you've never felt more alone.

The local train is packed but no one knows your name. Your PG has 6 roommates but no real friends. The city that never sleeps doesn't notice your sleepless nights.

Loneliness in a Crowded City

Everyone's Busy Mumbai runs on hustle. Nobody has time. "Let's meet" becomes "let's meet sometime" becomes never.

Transient Relationships People come and go. Your friend group keeps changing as people move, get married, leave.

Space Poverty Tiny rooms mean you can't host. Expensive restaurants mean you can't go out often. Where do friendships happen?

The Success Facade Everyone pretends they're thriving. Admitting loneliness feels like admitting failure.

Building Connection in Mumbai

Activity-Based Communities Running groups, book clubs, music classes. Shared interests create excuses to meet regularly.

Neighborhood Investment Pick one area - Bandra, Andheri, wherever - and become a regular. Same café, same gym, same spots.

Embrace the Local Train It's miserable, but also communal. Some people have made train friends.

Beach Gatherings Organize a Sunday evening at Bandstand or Carter Road. Low-cost, accessible.

Mumbai is lonely for many. You're not failing at anything - the city is just hard.

Aisha is here for the nights when the crowds go home and you're alone with your thoughts.