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Journalism of Courage
A Russian woman’s video detailing her “basic expenses” in India has gone viral, sparking a heated debate about lifestyle costs in Gurugram. Viktoriia Kovan, who lives in the city, revealed she spends Rs 1.2 lakh a month on rent for her 1BHK apartment, along with Rs 15,000 on electricity, Rs 40,000 on groceries, Rs 30,000 on shopping, Rs 20,000 on medicines, and about Rs 1,000 per Uber Black ride. The video begins with the line: “They say life in India is soooo cheap… Also, my basic monthly expenses in Gurugram.”
Sharing the clip on Instagram, she wrote: “Real facts, prepare your pockets to maintain a good lifestyle in Gurgaon.” After backlash, she clarified, “I’m not complaining, just giving facts. To maintain a good lifestyle, you need to prepare your pockets.”
Her breakdown sparked mixed reactions. Many argued that her lifestyle choices, like using Uber Black and renting a luxury apartment, were driving up her costs.
A user wrote, “Maybe take a regular uber instead of black? An apt w lower rent if it’s too high? Most of these seem like active choices rather than the baseline? And this is coming from someone in Mumbai.”
Another one said, “Living an ultra luxury lifestyle then complaining about the city being expensive !! Stop spreading lies. All your expenses can be covered under 70-80k and you can live a good life.”
A third person commented, “You’re generalizing the statement that India is expensive by quoting one of the, if not the most expensive city in India.”
A fourth individual wrote, “Everywhere in the world, it’s expensive to live a luxury life.”
