India, Aug. 28 -- Bengaluru's real estate market is witnessing a dramatic rise in rental prices, with even modest 1 BHK apartments in prime areas now demanding rents as high as Rs.45,000. As apartment sizes continue to shrink, many young professionals are left grappling with exorbitant rents, massive security deposits, and inadequate living conditions. What was once an affordable tech hub for many is increasingly becoming a city of 'matchbox apartments' rented at 'mansion prices.'

Sanjay Patil, 22, a young professional moving to Bengaluru for his first job, is scouting for a 1BHK in Bellandur, Kasavanahalli, or Marathahalli, but his budget is only Rs.10-12k. "Landlords are asking for huge deposits up front, which I can't afford at once. ...