Many of us have faced this situation at some point. When out on the first date with a guy, do you let him pay the bill because he invited you? Or should you insist on paying an equal share?

Ashmita Das, a clinical psychology student from Kolkata says, "I think both should pay equally, whether it is the first date or second date or any date! Money matters can be quite difficult to deal with at a later stage."

According to Deepika Thapliyal, a financial reporter, it does not matter who invited whom. "A guy expects something from you, so it is best to go Dutch. Moreover, he will respect you if you insist and pay for yourself," she reasons.

But what happens when your date decides to take you out for an expensive dinner at a fancy restaurant? Well, allow your date to pay if he insists and then reciprocate with a suitable gift or a similar outing at your expense later. That is exactly what painter Kanika Kuthiala does.

Pune based student Dhruv Khosla gives the male perspective when he says, "My girlfriend and I go out all the time and pay for alternate outings. However, since we have been seeing each other for a long time now, it hardly matters!"

Mumbai based psychotherapist Dr. Zirak Marker suggests that in the beginning of a relationship, the girl and boy pay for themselves. "It just might so happen that the boy might not have strong financial backing and if he has to pay for both of them on the first date that will only discourage him from going out," he explains. As the relationship becomes stronger and the couple become serious, it is important for the man to pay for his woman.

For many, like media professional Eva P in Mumbai, going Dutch is important because it creates a mutual feeling of respect and independence. "Not to mention that it helps in overcoming any kind of trouble that might arrive because of financial issues," she asserts.

And if gentle persuasion fails, let force take its course! Devika Das, a visual merchandising student from Ahmedabad narrates, "How can you let a guy pay if you hardly know him? I threatened my date that he will not see me again if he did not let me pay! My approach worked!"

The point of contention? So, the next time you head out for a date with your arm candy make sure you foot the bill, equally! After all, equality is what a relationship is all about!