Interesting question....well like you said a smooch on indian telly is highly impossible. As for a forehead kiss...I just think saying I love you doesn't mean you have to kiss or whatever...They haven't even held hands for a long period of time and their hugs have moments of their own....I think it'll be awhile for them to get to a forehead or even cheek kiss. I don't think it's a matter of what century you are living in...it's about the feelings and physical comfort level.
I myself am not a big fan of long stares, but I've gotten used to that since every show provides ample of staring competitions between leads. 😆
Shweta