New Delhi, Oct. 21 -- On a Saturday evening in Bengaluru, 39-year-old author and educator Divya Ramachandran sat in a stranger's living room as the host dismantled his collection of vintage wristwatches to explain how they work. On other weekends, she has shared poetry, attended African instrument showcases and joined a "PowerPoint hour", where guests present on random topics they are passionate about over a potluck meal.

In Kochi, 26-year-old software engineer Prasannath attended house gatherings to share meals with strangers who have similar interests, hoping to overcome social anxiety and build friendships.

Across metros and Tier-II cities, at-home events and workshops are becoming a micro-economy. Hosts turn flats and terraces into ...