Yet, diversity can also be a transformative force. Reflecting on her own journey, Dr. Chakrabarty shares, “I came from a conservative Bengali upbringing, but during hostel life, I became close to peers from marginalised communities. Living together helped us explore each other’s life worlds. It wasn’t always easy — but it changed me.”
In cities like Hyderabad, where youth make up a large part of the population, urban loneliness is a growing concern. Chosen families, then, aren’t just emotional luxuries—they’re survival mechanisms.
“These peer networks help in everyday life,” says Shivansh, adding, “Even though we no longer live in the same hostel, we still meet on weekends. The bond has changed, but the trust remains. We’re just a call away.”
For many, chosen families offer something traditional families sometimes can’t: emotional support without judgment. “With my parents, I share almost everything,” says Keethika, adding, “But with my chosen family, I can share everything — without fear of being misunderstood. Some of it comes with being the same age, of course.”
This International Day of Families (May 15), perhaps it’s time to expand our understanding of what ‘family’ means. Whether it’s midnight rants over Maggi, last-minute birthday surprises, or silent support after a long day, chosen families have become the quiet glue holding young urban lives together.
