‘Behind these buildings, there’s only loneliness’: Noida woman on life in high-rise societies

A woman living in Noida has shared her thoughts on the loneliness that can pervade large high-rise societies. Despite being surrounded by hundreds of residents, meaningful connections often elude inhabitants. Namita Shukla, in an Instagram video, expressed her observations of the potentially isolating nature of apartment living. "These high-rise buildings have a lot of loneliness," she stated in Hindi. "Behind these buildings, there is only loneliness and hollowness."

Shukla highlighted how neighbors can become disconnected, even those living adjacent to each other. "No one pays attention to anyone, no one talks to anyone. The guy living in the flat opposite you, whether you are alive or dead, it doesn't matter to him." She suggested that having a select few friends to rely on could alleviate the difficulties of living in such societies. "Just make two or three friends with whose support you can live your life here; otherwise life will become a living hell here," she advised.

Her comments reflect a growing sentiment among residents of large apartment complexes. While they offer physical proximity to thousands of people, they often fail to cultivate friendships or a genuine sense of belonging. Many social media users echoed her sentiments, expressing similar frustrations. One user lamented, "True. Sab jagah waise hi hai.

I landed one year ago here and now just want to get out of this place. People are only concerned about big houses, big cars, but empty from inside. People are too practical, unsocial. Waiting for the day to leave this place." Another offered a solution: "If we don't talk to someone, why would they talk to us? So start small, small talkings."