Nothing, they say, affects true love. While the romantics chant this, reality comes closer home. With 'save save save' being the new mantra, dating gets a makeover. We so wish there were a fancy turn to things, but love birds are in for a different kind of adjustment. If there were mood swings and weird habits to deal with earlier, now it's about cost-cutting. If 'splurge to impress' was the way to go, lovers know that to stay in the game the wallets need to go light, slowly. We talk to youngsters to know about their 'love stories' amidst tough times. Are the couples as lovey-dovey as in 'good' times?

"Things have certainly changed. The 'good ol' days' saw us going to Taj every week for lunch or a 'sumptuous' dinner. Now it's come down to twice a month," says Navdeep Bajwa, a call centre employee. The regular visits are also facing a 'make do' feel with coffee and a sandwich. "I have been seeing this girl for about two months, this is an important phase in any relationship but the current situations are making me pull the strings. Not that money wins love but you can't deny that it is essential. You feel like spending a lot but have to hold back." While working professionals face the heat, students are still living in a dream world. "If your love is true nothing changes it," claims a first-year law student from PU. "My girlfriend and I have been together for four years and we have never let anything affect the relationship. Recession or no recession, both of us will go on spending the way do. It's all for love!" Wonder what he will say once daddy shrinks the pocket money!

... contd.