Latest news with #RaviMittal
Hindustan Times
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Women are raising their dating standards from bare minimum: 4 outdated traits that no longer impress
What sets the heart racing for women? For far too long, outdated stereotypes have tried to answer that, shaped by pop culture, media tropes, and everything from Wattpad fantasies to rom-com cliches. But the tides are turning. The notions of 'tall, dark, and handsome' or 'rich man is hot' are getting a big reality check as women explore love beyond the surface-level charm. Looks like these are as fleeting as the social media trend of 'man in finance with a trust fund, 6'5.' The dating scene is now moving away from toxic traits, valuing emotional depths more.(Shutterstock) {{^userSubscribed}} {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{/userSubscribed}} {{^userSubscribed}} {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{/userSubscribed}} Quack Quack, a dating app, conducted a survey of 7615 female users from Tier 1, 2, and 3 cities, aged between 22 and 35, and they were asked a set of questions to understand what makes them say 'Nope.' {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} Ravi Mittal, QuackQuack's Founder and CEO, shared that these misconceptions are slowly fading. He said, "I think, for a very long time, there have been several misconceptions about what women like and don't, and women-related dating advice is typically built around those ideas and half-truths. This study should shine much-needed light on the reality. It's about time people throw away those age-old notions and start dating like decent humans." ALSO READ: Dating coach explains why compatibility matters more than chemistry in relationships: 'Don't chase the instant spark' {{^userSubscribed}} {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{/userSubscribed}} {{^userSubscribed}} {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{/userSubscribed}} {{^usCountry}} These are 4 traits that were previously were previously treated as the gold standard of desirability, making them big heartthrobs. But now things are changing in the dating scene: 1. Bad boys {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} These are 4 traits that were previously were previously treated as the gold standard of desirability, making them big heartthrobs. But now things are changing in the dating scene: 1. Bad boys {{/usCountry}} Read More {{^usCountry}} The tatted, mysterious boy with an intense, brooding stare, zero emotional availability, and a habit of breadcrumbing with occasional love bombing may look hot on-screen, but in real life, he's getting swiped left, as women are choosing to avoid all the drama. The bad boy fantasy is falling fast. {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} The tatted, mysterious boy with an intense, brooding stare, zero emotional availability, and a habit of breadcrumbing with occasional love bombing may look hot on-screen, but in real life, he's getting swiped left, as women are choosing to avoid all the drama. The bad boy fantasy is falling fast. {{/usCountry}} {{^usCountry}} Ravi said, "Everyone has heard of the 'women fall for bad boys' cliche, but 4 in 6 women between 25 and 35 say that it couldn't be farther from the truth. According to them, the narrative might hold up for teenagers who are generally not emotionally mature enough to understand the difference between toxic and healthy relationships, but when the topic is adult women, they know better. Most are actively turned off by hot-and-cold, indifferent behaviour. Around 28% of the respondents also commented that a myth like this is truly damaging, as it has encouraged several young men to take up the personality in question and intentionally mistreat their dates. They believe such misconceptions are the reason for so many toxic trends." 2. Tall, dark and handsome {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} Ravi said, "Everyone has heard of the 'women fall for bad boys' cliche, but 4 in 6 women between 25 and 35 say that it couldn't be farther from the truth. According to them, the narrative might hold up for teenagers who are generally not emotionally mature enough to understand the difference between toxic and healthy relationships, but when the topic is adult women, they know better. Most are actively turned off by hot-and-cold, indifferent behaviour. Around 28% of the respondents also commented that a myth like this is truly damaging, as it has encouraged several young men to take up the personality in question and intentionally mistreat their dates. They believe such misconceptions are the reason for so many toxic trends." 2. Tall, dark and handsome {{/usCountry}} {{^userSubscribed}} {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{/userSubscribed}} {{^userSubscribed}} {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{/userSubscribed}} The lethal face card is getting less weight in matters of the heart, while emotional depth is taking the torch and leading the way. Ravi added, 'Everyone thinks tall, attractive men have a better chance at scoring matches. While that might be the case for some (23%), the overwhelming number (49%) of women who said physical appearance barely holds weight in serious dating crushed this myth once and for all. Our survey results show women find it cringe when men list their height and other physical attributes in their bio. Kindness, emotional intelligence, personality, and effort topped the list of deal-makers, leaving tall, dark, and handsome at the very end.' 3. Rich man Instead of the bank account, women are prioritising someone who's ambitious, grounded, and focused on building a future, without the need to flaunt it. {{^userSubscribed}} {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{/userSubscribed}} {{^userSubscribed}} {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{/userSubscribed}} Ravi said,'Money has nothing to do with finding true love. In fact, these women stated that flashy display of wealth is anything but attractive; the list included profile pictures with luxury cars, name-dropping expensive brands, and looking down upon people. 3 in 4 women said they prefer an ambitious and honest man who can build a secure future for themselves over a rich brat.' Having a genuine connection matters more than superficial qualities. (Shutterstock) 4. Emotional unavailability {{^userSubscribed}} {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{/userSubscribed}} {{^userSubscribed}} {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{/userSubscribed}} The cold guy may seem intriguing at first, with his late replies and aloof responses, but the appeal eventually wears off. Instead, women are prioritising men who are genuinely eager and emotionally available. 'According to 41% of women over 30, the most outdated myth is that women don't like men who are too eager. 'Don't double text,' 'Don't reply right away,' and 'Wait at least three days to reach out after a date' were all debunked as common misconceptions. The study data suggests women love men who show a decent amount of eagerness; timely replies, texting after a date, and even double texting are considered attractive and cute,' Ravi concluded. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition. {{^userSubscribed}} {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{/userSubscribed}} {{^userSubscribed}} {{^usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{#usCountry}} {{/usCountry}} {{/userSubscribed}} SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Hindustan Times
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Reverse catfishing is the new dating trend among youngsters
In the age of filtered photos and feeds, where standing out is often the goal, a quiet dating trend is making waves: reverse catfishing. Reverse catfishing is all about underplaying your appeal(Photo: Shutterstock) Unlike traditional catfishing, where people deceive others by appearing more attractive or successful online, reverse catfishing is all about underplaying your appeal. From dressing down in profile pictures to skipping luxury mentions and flaunting a basic bio, it's the art of 'playing it low-key' on purpose. "Reverse catfishing is still very new," says Ravi Mittal, founder and CEO of dating app QuackQuack. "We think it's a love letter to emotional intelligence. Who, other than an emotionally sorted and extremely secure person, would dare to play it down on purpose? It shows that young daters are more interested in finding the right match than impressing the wrong one." This understated approach is reportedly gaining traction among millennials and Gen Z, especially those who've grown disillusioned by the swipe-left culture that often rewards only surface-level charm. For some, reverse catfishing is a form of digital detox from the pressure of being 'Insta-perfect'. For others, it's a litmus test for genuine interest. But the concept isn't exactly new. Pratik Jain, a dating coach based in India, points out that 'people from high-status backgrounds — athletes, heirs, or those from influential families — have long downplayed their wealth or looks to attract partners who see them for who they are.' He adds that while this move can be sincere, it can also straddle a manipulative line. 'Imagine showing up to a date looking far better than your photos. It can create an instant dopamine hit and heighten attraction artificially.' So, is reverse catfishing romantic or a calculated move? As per the experts, it depends. On one hand, it signals emotional maturity and self-assurance — traits many daters now value more than six-pack abs or luxury cars. On the other, it can backfire if the disparity between online and offline personas feels jarring or dishonest.
Time of India
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
What is reverse catfishing? Gen Z's new dating strategy to find real love
Traditional use of dating apps has always been about showing off, looking attractive, richer, and cooler than you are. Setting up your profile on a dating app requires lots of effort, filtered and digital edits, and an enhanced version of reality. But now Gen Z's new ways to win genuine matches have changed. People are taking a completely contrasting approach on dating apps to find their perfect matches. This is called 'reverse catfishing'. It is a dating strategy where users intentionally upload raw, imperfect, and unfiltered pictures of themselves to find their match. What is 'reverse catfishing' Reverse catfishing refers to posting unfiltered, raw photos and toning down your accomplishments intentionally to find the perfect match. This new concept flips the script on traditional dating app culture by ditching curated perfection and embracing authenticity. The users are prioritising emotional connection now over superficial attraction. It involves keeping your profile as real as possible, without any false information, sometimes even highlighting your flaws. This approach seeks genuine matches who appreciate and accept the imperfections of the other person, marking a shift towards emotional connection and meaningful relationships. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Idols - Handmade Brass Statues for Home & Gifting Luxeartisanship Buy Now Undo Reason behind the rise of the 'reverse catfishing' trend A survey was conducted by QuackQuack, a dating app, from the beginning of April among 7,463 daters between the ages of 18 and 27. The users came from different regions and belonged to different career fields, including IT, healthcare, education, content creation, and more. According to the survey, 2 in 5 Gen Z populations are embracing 'reverse catfishing'. Gen Z daters are focusing on keeping everything real, and reverse catfishing is their way of just doing the same. They have moved on from creating highly curated profiles and are looking for genuine connections. Simplicity and authenticity are the key, whether it's about sharing passions for fitness, foodie adventures, dance, or music festivals, concerts, or anything else. Reverse catfishing marks a refreshing shift- not trying to impress someone by putting out false information, just being themselves. They'd rather find someone who loves them for who they are, accepting flaws and all. "Reverse catfishing is still very new. We think it's a love letter to emotional intelligence. Who, other than an emotionally sorted and extremely secure person, would dare to play it down on purpose? It shows that young daters are more interested in finding the right match than impressing the wrong one. They are looking for more than surface-level attractions, even if that means they have to let go of their 'Insta-worthy' lifestyle for that,' says Ravi Mittal, founder and CEO of QuackQuack. As per the survey conducted, 28% of participants preferred going for matches that don't have a perfect profile picture and a well-framed bio that looks straight out of an AI chatbot. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Hindustan Times
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
What is reverse catfishing trend? Gen Z's latest move to pull genuine matches on dating apps
Traditional catfishing on dating apps has always been about pretending, looking cooler, richer, and more attractive than you really are. This is achieved through filters and digital edits, a cherry-picked and enhanced version of reality, spotlighting only the most flattering angles. Catfishing profiles are misleading, creating a version that doesn't exist. Gen Z, however, is turning the tide by doing the exact opposite. According to a survey conducted by dating app QuackQuack, 2 in 5 Gen Z users are engaging in reverse catfishing to attract genuine, emotionally intelligent connections. Reverse catfishing is about ditching the razzle-dazzle of dating apps, and bringing out the messy truth to figure out who's really in it for real. Most importantly, it shows a slow but steady pivot towards emotional intelligence by downplaying looks (by picking not so flattering pics) and unpolishing the bio (less flexing now.) QuackQuack's founder and CEO, Ravi Mittal, commented, "Reverse Catfishing is still a very new trend. We think it's a love letter to emotional intelligence. Who, other than an emotionally sorted and extremely secure person, would dare to play it down on purpose? It shows that young daters are more interested in finding the right match than impressing the wrong one. They are looking for more than surface-level attractions, even if that means they have to let go of their 'Insta-worthy' lifestyle for that." With so much of contemporary dating app culture being inherently performative, from 4-5 line bio where you have to fit to sum up your entire personality to the carefully curated set of photos designed to impress, sometimes being real is the last thing on mind. But Gen Z, being Gen Z, is very on-brand with their unfiltered approach as the messy realness 'humanises' dating profiles. Ravi Mittal noted, "For Gen Z, reverse catfishing is the new green flag. 28% of users from Tier 1, 2, and 3 said they are more attracted to users who look and talk like a real person. They revealed going for matches that don't have the perfect display picture and bios that look straight out of an AI chatbox. They also admitted showing up a little undone in their own profiles to make a statement that 'this is me; take it or leave it.' QuackQuack's data also shows that since March 2025, a silly couch selfie with more realistically written bios showed better match longevity even if the match rates were slightly lower." Keeping things casual and less airbrushed leads to better in-person interactions, with less ghosting, because it sets the tone right from the get-go. This trend is helpful, keeping mismatched expectations away. Ravi quoted the survey and shared how the trend is a 'surprise upgrade' for dating app users, "3 in 5 male users between 20 and 25 called reverse catfishing a clever yet non-toxic trick to wow their matches. It manages expectations during the online interaction, only to exceed them when things go offline. They called it the 'surprise upgrade' that not only helps them find someone who genuinely likes their humble version with all the under-promising, but also leads to over-delivering when the romance goes in real life.' Reverse catfishing is a trend that is growing currently in the dating landscape, where honesty is being prioritised, cutting through the optical illusion of curated profiles. ALSO READ: Relationship expert says this '1 quality' predicts if someone is going to be a good partner Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice.
India Today
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
Reverse Catfishing: Gen Z's new dating strategy for finding real love
When you sign up on a dating app, the first few minutes (or even hours) are spent setting up your profile. A lot of effort goes into making it as likeable as possible. From seeking help from friends (perhaps even from AI) to craft the perfect bio, to selecting the best of your best pictures, and maybe even lying a little while answering some questions to appear cooler, people do it all for that ideal first out, there are people taking a completely contrasting approach on dating platforms to find genuine matches. It is called 'reverse catfishing'.What is 'reverse catfishing'It is a dating strategy where users intentionally put up unfiltered, raw, and even flawed pictures with purposefully toned-down achievements to find the most genuine match, who has the potential to love them even at their lowest. The name, of course, comes from catfishing, where people fake their identities to lure matches with the intent to deceive others into a relationship or transaction. The goal is typically to mislead the victim, sometimes leading to financial scams or emotional catfishing, on the other hand, is a completely different approach. It involves keeping your profile as real as possible, sometimes even highlighting traits you consider to be flaws. The reason? To find someone who likes you for who you truly are, not just for your positive to dating app Quack-Quack's latest survey, 2 in 5 Gen Z daters are now embracing 'reverse catfishing'. Not flexing at all is apparently the newest survey was conducted from the beginning of April among 7,463 daters between the ages of 18 and 27. Participants came from metros, suburbs, and rural regions and belonged to various career fields, including IT, healthcare, education, finance, marketing, content creation, and more, as well as students and young start-up behind the rise of this trendUnfiltered authenticity, one of the strongest virtues for Gen Z daters, is behind the rise of reverse catfishing. Be it bonding over fitness, food, travel or concerts, the authenticity factor tops their list of priorities as noted by several dating app is of utmost importance; they want someone who can accept them for who they are. Finding the right match is their goal, and impressing the wrong one is not."Reverse catfishing is still very new. We think it's a love letter to emotional intelligence. Who, other than an emotionally sorted and extremely secure person, would dare to play it down on purpose? It shows that young daters are more interested in finding the right match than impressing the wrong one. They are looking for more than surface-level attractions, even if that means they have to let go of their 'Insta-worthy' lifestyle for that,' says Ravi Mittal, founder and CEO of Quack per cent of participants revealed going for matches that don't have the perfect display picture and bios that look straight out of an AI chatbot. While these polished profiles might indicate effort, somewhere, the authenticity is lost in trying hard to be women feel that this trend acts as a perfect protective layer."A less glamorous profile attracts men who truly want to know me, instead of the 'pretty woman' in the picture. Ever since I have adopted this approach, the connections I have made have all been real, even if the numbers are slightly lower,' Anuja, a fitness coach from Bangalore, shares with the dating app way this approach helps daters is by managing their manages expectations during the online interaction, only to exceed them when things go offline. They called it the 'surprise upgrade' that not only helps them find someone who genuinely likes their humble version with all the under-promising but also leads to over-delivering when the romance goes you team 'reverse catfishing' or not?
