Kolkata residents embrace digital detoxing to improve well being & relationships
Times of India | 10 November 2025
KOLKATA: A section of younsters in Kolkata are embracing the concept of digital detoxing, consciously disconnecting from their devices to reconnect with nature, hobbies, and family.
This voluntary action stems from a realisation that they are increasingly getting dependent on digital devices that is causing a disconnect with the real world, affecting inter-personal relationships and leading to emotional exhaustion and stress.
Anshuman Das, a young working professional in Salt Lake, now periodically takes time off to go hiking each weekend. This is as much to enjoy fresh air and the tranquillity as it is to set the device aside and connect with nature.
He explains, “Nature is my escape from the rush of daily life. It’s the only time my mind stops racing, slows down, and I come back refreshed. The stress seems to get lost along the trails.”
Raghav Agarwal, a student at Bhawanipore College, dedicates one day a week to music, reading, and tennis, reclaiming creative hobbies that once brought him joy. He states, “Taking a break helps me focus better throughout the week. I feel more like myself.”
Students like Raghav find that staying offline even for a few hours reduces pressure and enhances their sense of calm and presence.
The Pattanayak family, who live in Alipore, have transformed their Sunday evenings into a cherished ritual of home-cooked meals, board games, and late-night conversations. Renuka Pattanayak shares, “We all used to sit together but were glued to our phones. Now we laugh, argue over the games, and actually listen to one another again.”
The trend towards digital detoxing has gained momentum as people recognise the need to set boundaries in an age where smartphones feel indispensable. Many professionals, whose work often spills into personal hours due to the pandemic, are now avoiding late messages and reducing evening screen time, leading to improved sleep, focus, and well-being.
Older generations also find benefits in reducing device usage, allowing them to return to slower routines such as gardening, reading, or taking walks.
Families are rethinking their digital habits, with practices like “no-device dinners” becoming more common to rebuild communication and strengthen relationships.
Mental health professionals note that digital detoxing is no longer just a wellness trend but a necessary habit for cognitive and emotional balance. Dr Sonika Singh, a psychologist based in Kolkata, says, “Our minds rarely get a moment of rest. Every ping or alert demands our attention, and over time, that constant stimulation leads to fatigue and irritability. Taking regular breaks from devices helps the brain slow down, recharge, and focus better.” This emphasises that digital detoxing isn’t about abandoning technology; it’s about using it mindfully.
Digital detoxing does not necessitate complete disconnection. Instead, individuals are adopting strategies such as keeping devices out of bedrooms and dining areas, turning off notifications, uninstalling non-essential apps, and establishing tech-free hours.
Engaging in offline activities like reading, yoga, painting, and nature walks is helping people enhance their focus, sleep quality, and emotional clarity.
As India's digital landscape continues to expand, the practice of logging off is increasingly viewed not as a form of isolation but as an act of mindfulness. The movement underscores the importance of stepping away from the digital rush to breathe and appreciate the present moment.