How the Conversation Started
The discussion began when Shreya Gan posted a video on Instagram explaining her monthly expenses in a straightforward manner. In the video, she revealed that she lives in a rented 1RK apartment and pays ₹11,500 as rent. This particular detail quickly grabbed attention, as accommodation is widely considered the most expensive aspect of living in Mumbai.
A Detailed Look at Her Monthly Expenses
Shreya broke down her spending to show how she manages her budget:
Rent: ₹11,500
Electricity: ₹300–₹400
Mobile recharge: ₹300
Travel: Around ₹500 (mostly via local trains, with occasional autos or taxis)
Groceries: ₹1,500–₹1,800
Online shopping: ₹2,000
Miscellaneous expenses: ₹1,000
According to her, this brings her total monthly expenditure to approximately ₹17,500–₹18,000.
Rent Becomes the Biggest Question
While her overall budget seemed disciplined, the rent figure sparked the most debate online.
Many users found it hard to believe that a 1RK apartment in Mumbai could cost as low as ₹11,500. Several comments reflected this skepticism:
“Which area offers such low rent? Usually, a 1RK costs ₹25,000–₹30,000.”
“Where in Mumbai are you getting ₹11,500 rent?”
“Is this even possible in Mumbai?”
For many, this number didn’t align with their understanding of the city’s housing market.
Mixed Reactions from Viewers
Beyond rent, some users also questioned whether living comfortably within this budget is realistic. Comments like “This sounds difficult!” highlighted doubts about managing all expenses within such limits. At the same time, the video has encouraged others to reflect on their own spending habits. It has sparked conversations about budgeting, lifestyle choices, and how costs can vary significantly depending on location, lifestyle, and personal priorities.
A Broader Reflection
Whether fully believable or not, the viral claim has achieved one thing — it has reignited discussions about affordability in Mumbai. While some see it as unrealistic, others view it as an example of disciplined budgeting in an expensive city. Ultimately, the debate highlights a key truth: living costs in Mumbai are not one-size-fits-all, and personal experiences can differ widely.
