How much PDA is too much?

All of us have felt a little uncomfortable at some point or the other, when a couple next to us in a movie theatre or an elevator tries to sneak in a peck on the cheek or even sly and naughty exchange of whispers.We must admit that it must be difficult for young lovers to keep their hands off each other, so indulging in Public Displays of Affection is quite common, but is there a point where they should learn to draw a line? Something this sensitive and that has to do with various aspects of cultural etiquette is subjective; it differs from culture to culture and from country to country. In the West, a couple kissing while waiting in line for their coffee to arrive would definitely not make many around them uncomfortable, unless the person is an immigrant from India, of course, but even a couple holding hands can drive middle-aged parents into a squeamish fit.“There is just something very exciting about PDA, it helps us keep the relationship alive,” says a young, city-based corporate employee. It may be an exhilarating experience for the youngsters in love, but their parents must surely have an opinion.  “Honestly, I don’t mind if my son holds hands in the public, but he should know where to draw the line,” says Sujatha Rajan, a surprisingly honest housewife and mother. On the other hand, Shuba, a newlywed, says, “It is completely wrong for people to indulge in public displays of affection. Even if there is nothing going on between the boy and the girl, the way they behave with each other will conjure many thoughts in the minds of people around them.”Usually, at cafes, pubs and restaurants, seemingly ashamed waiters and managers interrupt the happy couple in action, asking them if they want the bill or if they are looking to order anything else. They story is completely different when it comes to approaching snug couples in movie theatres. “We primarily cater to the needs of our customers, so we deal with such situations only if we get complaints from other people in the theatre, or if it is completely unacceptable,” explains a representative from Satyam Cinemas. If the couple around you is obliviously in love, there is not really much you can do to escape the circumstance. Try politely explaining to them that you are uncomfortable. If you are hesitant to approach them, the only sensible thing to do will be to ignore them and enjoy your movie or shopping spree as best as you can.