Private investigators report a seasonal surge in demand, with spouses, students and engaged couples among those being monitored during the nine-night festival
Private investigators in Ahmedabad reported a 40 per cent rise in surveillance assignments during Navratri this year, with non-resident Indian (NRI) spouses among the prominent clients seeking information about their partners, according to a report by Ahmedabad Mirror.
The nine-night festival, known for its large-scale garba celebrations, has become a busy period for private detective agencies in the Gujarat city. Investigators say the demand extends beyond marital relationships to include students living in hostels and paying guest accommodation, as well as couples preparing to marry.
Private investigator Abhishek Rami told the newspaper that his assignments increased by 40 per cent during the festival. He reported receiving around six cases involving NRI spouses, claiming that his team found evidence of their partners spending time with members of the opposite sex. These claims have not been independently verified.
The report said many NRI clients were aged between 35 and 40 and had travelled to Ahmedabad to participate in Navratri festivities
Students were another group under scrutiny, with some parents and guardians reportedly hiring investigators to check whether their children were spending time with romantic partners instead of concentrating on their studies.
Prospective brides and grooms were also being monitored at the request of families seeking information before marriage. Investigators said some affluent families hired teams to follow engaged couples and document their activities.
- According to the report, surveillance covering all nine nights of Navratri can cost around Rs 1.5 lakh
- Investigators described using photography and video equipment, purchasing entry passes to garba venues and observing individuals from vehicles to avoid attracting attention. Some also claimed to use GPS tracking devices
The trend highlights how private investigation services are being used to address concerns about relationships, family expectations and premarital compatibility.
However, surveillance involving personal movements and electronic tracking can raise questions about privacy and consent. The legality of such methods depends on the circumstances and the techniques used.
The figures and accounts cited in the report are based on statements from private investigators and do not establish the prevalence of infidelity or misconduct among the people being monitored.
