I moved to Mumbai in 2021 for university. I earned my bachelor’s degree this year and am now pursuing my master’s. My parents rent an apartment for me here and also give me a monthly allowance. I’ve told them I can get a job so I wouldn’t be a burden, but they refuse to let me work, whether part-time or full-time, saying I should focus entirely on my studies. In the summer of 2024, I met a much older man and we started dating. I moved into his house in December. Here’s the issue: my parents are still paying for the apartment and sending me money each month. I haven’t spent any of it since I started dating this man and have been saving it so I can eventually give it back to them. But if I tell them to stop sending money and paying rent, they’ll know something’s up, and I don’t want to tell them about my relationship because I know they’ll react badly. At the same time, I feel guilty because my parents aren’t wealthy enough for that money to be pocket change.
On a different note. I think working, next to your studies, is a very valuable skill. Doesn’t matter if it’s “just” bartending or as a storeclerk. It gives you work experience and work ethic. Many new graduates don’t have either of those.