New Delhi: Valentine’s Day is around the corner, but India’s Gen Z and millennials are redefining how love is expressed. Traditional gifts like red roses and teddy bears are losing their charm, giving way to quirky, personalized, and practical presents, according to recent shopping trends on Instamart and Swiggy.
The End of Red Roses?
Classic bouquets are no longer the default. Instamart’s latest shopping data reveals a cultural shift: young buyers are opting for chocolates, chips, protein bars, grooming kits, and even condom packets instead of conventional flowers. These items are being creatively arranged in gift bundles, reflecting a more personal and playful approach to gifting.
Trending Gifts of 2026
This year, Valentine’s Day gifts in India are practical yet fun. Limited-edition “Bouquets for All Love Languages” have caught attention, replacing roses with chocolates, snacks, protein bars, and other everyday items. Some bouquets even feature grooming kits, bath and body care combos, or cute hair accessories shaped like flowers.
Personalized Gifting on the Rise
Consumers are now tailoring gifts to their loved ones’ tastes. For example, one recipient received her favorite ice cream tub as a surprise Valentine’s gift. Others are sending skincare sets, favorite snacks, or protein bars to gym-going partners. The trend reflects a shift toward authentic expressions of love—more real, less cinematic.
When is Valentine’s Day 2026?
Valentine’s Day falls on February 14 every year, and this year it lands on Saturday. The tradition traces back to Saint Valentine, a 3rd-century Roman priest who sacrificed his life for love and marriage rights. Over the centuries, the day has evolved into a celebration of love and relationships, though in India, some still mark the day in unconventional ways.
This Valentine’s season, love is increasingly being expressed through thoughtfulness and personalization, proving that sometimes, practicality can be the sweetest gesture of all.
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