Cupid has recovered from recession

Recession: What's love got to do with it? Everything it seems. Last year, Cupid was struck down by recession's flaming arrow. February 2009 saw very few couples taking time out to celebrate their love.

A dipstick we conducted last year showed couples who did celebrate were spending an average of Rs. 2,000 for a meal or maybe a movie and dinner.

This year though matters look very different. February 14 falls on a Sunday which has prompted many couples to plan an outstation trip. Weekend getaways are hot especially since February 12 is also a national holiday so couples who are heading out are spending anywhere from Rs 10,000 and upwards.

The ones who are not traveling are still spending in the city. Romantic dinners at fancy restaurants are in and people are willing to fork out as much as Rs 5,000 this year.

Businesses too can now 'feel the love'.

By: Nilofer D'Souza and Abhishek Raghunath, Forbes India