Yup, Growing up in Bangalore in the 90's, I remember it was nothing like this. In fact I remember summers being very enjoyable. Kite flying, playing with tops, going out with friends, playing Gilli-danda in the afternoons, and watching cricket in nights.

In fact my dad(who was a bus/truck driver), tells me he had far better quality of life than me in the pre-1980s. Air was pure, and the city was empty, and it was safe in the cities. It was almost like there was enough space and resources for everybody. You could rent easily. Working hours were same, but people got home quickly(not much traffic) and spent time with families.

And more importantly there was a calm, relaxed pace to life.

These days we have money and career, but much is lost in terms of quality of life.