The Sunset Clause works much like a business contract
Digital Desk: Tired of endless swiping and relationships that go nowhere, young singles in India are embracing a new dating trend in 2026 known as the “Sunset Clause.” The concept allows daters to set a clear time limit on matches or relationships, helping them protect both their emotions and their time.
According to a recent survey by certain dating app, 37% of singles aged 22 to 35 across Indian cities have begun adopting time-bound dating. The trend reflects a growing preference for what experts call “outcome-based dating,” where users seek clarity and commitment rather than prolonged, uncertain talking stages.
The Sunset Clause works much like a business contract. Two people agree on a defined period, often 6 months to a year, to assess compatibility. If the relationship shows no meaningful progress within that timeframe, both parties part ways amicably unless they mutually decide to commit and move forward.
CEO's of multiple dating apps reveals that users are increasingly prioritising results over endless chatting. “Young daters have evolved from casual flings to calculated compatibility,” he noted, adding that career alignment, lifestyle compatibility, and long-term goals are now taking precedence over chemistry alone.
Experts believe the trend has emerged from post-pandemic dating fatigue. After years of ghosting, lukewarm conversations, and prolonged “talking stages,” many singles are choosing to time-box romance. The COVID-19 pandemic also reinforced the value of time, prompting daters to seek purposeful connections rather than casual scrolling.
However, critics argue that Sunset Clauses may make relationships feel transactional, as love cannot always be timed or forced. Despite this concern, the trend highlights a broader shift in India’s dating culture, with many moving beyond hook-up culture toward relationships focused on long-term commitment and shared futures.
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