Gen Z's Sober Shift: Why Young Indians Are Redefining Drinking Culture

• Gen Z is demoting alcohol from a daily habit to an event, leading to a decline in weekday bar footfall in cities like Delhi.
• Despite reduced routine drinking, alcohol sales spike at concerts, weddings, and festivals, indicating selective consumption.
• Factors like scarce time, high cocktail costs (Rs 700-Rs 1,200), living arrangements, and mental health awareness drive Gen Z's choices.
• Experts like Dr. Abhinav Gupta highlight Gen Z's focus on mental well-being, choosing therapy or digital detoxes over alcohol for stress.
• The hospitality industry struggles to adapt, measuring demand by frequency while Gen Z prioritizes novelty, atmosphere, and social alignment.

Why It Matters: Gen Z is redefining drinking culture, choosing selective, intentional consumption over routine habits due to practical and wellness factors.