Bengaluru air quality forces young entrepreneur couple to leave city

A young couple, Ashwin and Aparna, both 27 and working in the corporate sector while also running a business, have announced their decision to leave Bengaluru after two years—citing worsening air quality as the primary reason.

The couple, originally enthusiastic about life in the city, took to social media to share their experience. Despite appreciating the people, culture, and climate of Bengaluru, they revealed that their health steadily declined due to the city’s deteriorating air conditions.

Also read: Did you know? Air pollution can lead to heart attacks! 

“Bengaluru is slowly killing us,” said Ashwin in an emotional video, explaining how both developed respiratory issues during their stay. “I never had allergies or breathing problems before. But here, I constantly suffered from coughing and sneezing,” Aparna added.

Highlighting their efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and mindful habits, the couple expressed frustration that their condition only worsened. In February, they checked the Air Quality Index (AQI) and were shocked to find it at 297—a level they equated to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

“We love Bengaluru. It’s great for business and lifestyle. But our health has to come first,” Aparna stated, questioning the city’s “fresh air” reputation. Though their decision may disappoint some, the couple stands firm: “We’re choosing long-term wellbeing over convenience.”

Their story has sparked renewed conversations around urban air pollution and its impact on young professionals.