Chandigarh, Feb. 14 -- Valentine's Day, almost imperceptibly over the years, has shifted from being the exclusive domain of romantic couples, to a day where singles openly embrace their independence. What was once marketed as a celebration of lovers now increasingly doubles up as an assertion of selfhood.

Across the Tricity, commercial spaces are adapting to the new shift. A "Singles Mixer" at Misora Cafe in Mohali and a "Singles Fest" hosted by Mulakat at Event House are among events celebrating individuals "for who they are" rather than who they are dating. The trend appears particularly pronounced among youth in their 20s. For many, relationships are no longer seen as a necessary milestone during college years. Instead, self growth, c...