Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 12, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Sanjay Question by Sanjay on Jul 12, 2024Hindi
Money

Hi, I am close to 49 years, earning about 3.5L per month after tax. I have a house worth 2Cr, two sites roughly worth 1Cr, EPF worth 1Cr and MF/Shares portfolio worth around 1Cr (50K SIP) and other smaller LIC policies I also have personal loan of about 10L pending and car loan outstanding of 10L both costing me 80K eMI for next two years more. I want to buy an apartment which is approximately at 2.5Cr to have a bigger living space for my family. Please suggest if it is doable or should i plan something else

Ans: At 49, you're earning a solid Rs. 3.5 lakhs per month after tax. Your assets include a house worth Rs. 2 crores, two sites worth Rs. 1 crore, an EPF worth Rs. 1 crore, and a mutual funds and shares portfolio worth Rs. 1 crore. Additionally, you have smaller LIC policies.

You also have outstanding personal and car loans totaling Rs. 20 lakhs, with EMIs costing you Rs. 80,000 per month for the next two years. You're considering purchasing a new apartment worth Rs. 2.5 crores to provide a larger living space for your family. Let’s evaluate this decision comprehensively.

Analyzing Your Current Assets and Liabilities
Assets:
Primary Residence: Rs. 2 crores
Two Sites: Rs. 1 crore
EPF: Rs. 1 crore
Mutual Funds and Shares: Rs. 1 crore
Liabilities:
Personal Loan: Rs. 10 lakhs
Car Loan: Rs. 10 lakhs
Monthly Financial Commitments
Income:
Monthly Salary: Rs. 3.5 lakhs
Expenses:
EMIs: Rs. 80,000 for the next two years
Living Expenses: Let’s estimate Rs. 1.5 lakhs
Savings and Investments: Rs. 50,000 in SIPs
After accounting for EMIs and living expenses, you have approximately Rs. 1.2 lakhs left each month. This provides a buffer for additional investments or savings, but the bulk of your income is committed.

Feasibility of Purchasing the New Apartment
Financial Cushion:
To purchase the Rs. 2.5 crore apartment, you need to evaluate your financing options. Your current assets and savings can potentially support this purchase, but it requires a well-thought-out approach.

Loan Considerations:
Given your current EMI commitments, taking on additional loans for the new apartment will significantly impact your monthly cash flow. Here are some steps to consider:

Clear Existing Loans: Focus on repaying your Rs. 20 lakhs in personal and car loans over the next two years. This will free up Rs. 80,000 per month, which can then be allocated towards a home loan for the new apartment.

Home Loan for New Apartment: After clearing existing loans, you could consider taking a home loan for the apartment. With the current financial landscape, securing a loan for Rs. 1.5 to Rs. 2 crores may be feasible, given your income and assets.

Using Savings and Investments: Part of the purchase can be financed through your savings and investments. Your mutual funds and shares worth Rs. 1 crore can be partially liquidated. However, ensure you retain a diversified portfolio for long-term growth.

Detailed Financial Planning
Review and Rebalance Portfolio:
Given your significant assets in mutual funds and shares, it’s essential to periodically review and rebalance your portfolio. This ensures optimal growth and mitigates risks. Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner to tailor a strategy that aligns with your new financial goals.

Emergency Fund:
Maintain an emergency fund to cover at least six months of living expenses. This fund acts as a safety net, ensuring that unforeseen circumstances do not derail your financial plans.

Prioritize Investments Over LIC Policies:
If you hold traditional LIC policies, review their performance and returns. Often, these policies offer lower returns compared to mutual funds. It might be wise to surrender underperforming policies and redirect those funds into higher-yielding investments like mutual funds.

Managing Lifestyle Inflation:
As your income grows, so do your expenses. It’s crucial to manage lifestyle inflation and ensure that your spending does not outpace your income growth. Stick to a budget and track your expenses to maintain financial discipline.

Real Estate as a Living Space, Not an Investment
It’s commendable that you wish to purchase a larger apartment for your family. However, remember that real estate should primarily be viewed as a living space rather than an investment. The returns on real estate investments can be unpredictable and illiquid.

Strategic Steps Forward
Step 1: Clear Existing Debts
Prioritize repaying your personal and car loans over the next two years. This will reduce your financial burden and improve your creditworthiness for future loans.

Step 2: Secure a Home Loan
Once your current loans are cleared, approach banks or financial institutions for a home loan. Given your income and asset base, securing a loan for Rs. 1.5 to Rs. 2 crores should be achievable. Compare loan offers to find the best interest rates and terms.

Step 3: Partial Liquidation of Investments
Consider partially liquidating your mutual funds and shares to fund the down payment for the apartment. Ensure you retain a balanced portfolio for continued growth.

Step 4: Maintain Diversification
Diversify your investments across asset classes to minimize risks and maximize returns. Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to align with your financial goals.

Step 5: Consult a Certified Financial Planner
Engage a Certified Financial Planner to create a comprehensive financial plan. They can provide tailored advice and strategies to achieve your financial goals while ensuring your family’s financial security.

Final Insights
Purchasing a new apartment for Rs. 2.5 crores is a significant financial decision. By carefully evaluating your current financial situation and strategically planning your finances, you can make this goal achievable. Clearing existing debts, securing a home loan, and maintaining a diversified investment portfolio are crucial steps. Engaging a Certified Financial Planner will provide expert guidance to navigate this journey successfully.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 25, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 22, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello Ramalingam Ji, I am 44 years old, working in IT and live in Bengaluru. I am unmarried at this moment. I live in a rented house. Here are my investments breakups - 1.45 Cr in Equity Shares, 5 Lakhs in MF, 27 Lakhs in PPF, 20 Lakhs in EPF, 7 Lakhs in NPS, and 14 Lakhs in FD as an Emergency Fund. I have a health insurance of 30L apart from the office provided one. My monthly in hand salary about 2.2 Lakhs. And my monthly expenses including rent, insurances, sports/gym subscription, food and others comes about 75 - 80 Thousands a month. I invest 1.1 Lakhs in equity shares, 18 Thousands in RDs to meet my certain onetime expenditures in a years such as insurances, internet payments etc. I do not have any loans. How do you think I should go about so I could purchase a house/flat as well as have enough investments using which I could live comfortably. I also want to know if at all possible to retire by 50 or 55 years? will it even makes sense purchasing a house/flat since I have no one after me. Thanking you in advanced.
Ans: You are in a strong financial position. You have diverse investments and stable income. Your disciplined approach reflects a clear financial vision.

This response provides detailed insights into buying a house, early retirement, and optimising your investments.

Understanding Your Current Financial Health
1. Investments and Emergency Funds

Rs 1.45 crore in equity is a significant achievement.

Your Rs 14 lakh emergency fund is well-planned. It ensures liquidity during emergencies.

 

2. Monthly Income and Expenses

You save and invest a substantial portion of your Rs 2.2 lakh monthly salary.

Expenses are well-balanced, leaving you with Rs 1.1 lakh for investments.

 

3. Health Insurance Coverage

You have Rs 30 lakh health insurance, which safeguards against medical emergencies.

Office-provided insurance adds additional security.

House Purchase Consideration
1. Evaluate the Need for a House

A house is not necessary unless it enhances your quality of life.

With no dependents, consider renting for flexibility.

 

2. Financial Implications of Buying a House

Buying a house requires a long-term financial commitment.

EMIs will reduce your ability to save and invest aggressively.

 

3. Alternative Options

Continue renting if the cost is reasonable and suits your lifestyle.

Investing the funds earmarked for a house can yield better returns over time.

Early Retirement by 50 or 55
1. Analyse Monthly Expenses Post-Retirement

Estimate future monthly expenses, considering inflation.

Rs 75,000 today could become Rs 1.5 lakh in 15 years.

 

2. Calculate the Required Corpus

To withdraw Rs 1.5 lakh monthly, you need Rs 4.5 crore.

This corpus ensures financial independence throughout retirement.

 

3. Utilise Current Investments for Growth

Your investments in equity, MF, PPF, EPF, and NPS must compound consistently.

Diversify your portfolio to balance growth and stability.

Investment Optimisation
1. Focus on Equity Mutual Funds

Increase your MF investments for long-term growth.

Actively managed funds offer higher returns compared to index funds.

 

2. Avoid Direct Mutual Funds

Direct funds lack professional guidance and may lead to errors.

Regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner ensure optimised returns.

 

3. Maximise NPS Contributions

NPS provides additional tax benefits under Section 80CCD(1B).

It supports your retirement corpus with equity exposure and lower risk.

 

4. Reassess Fixed Deposits

Rs 14 lakh in FDs offers safety but lower returns.

Shift a portion to debt funds or balanced funds for better inflation protection.

Emergency Fund and Risk Management
1. Maintain Adequate Liquidity

Keep six months' expenses in liquid investments like FDs or short-term funds.

This ensures quick access to funds during emergencies.

 

2. Evaluate Insurance Adequacy

Your current health cover of Rs 30 lakh is sufficient.

Ensure critical illness or personal accident cover if not already included.

Retirement Income Planning
1. Generate Passive Income

Explore dividend-paying funds for steady income during retirement.

Consider systematic withdrawal plans (SWPs) post-retirement for tax efficiency.

 

2. Ladder Your Investments

Align investments to meet milestones like early retirement and healthcare needs.

Staggered withdrawals reduce risks during market downturns.

Tax Planning
1. Optimise Tax Benefits

Maximise contributions to tax-saving instruments like PPF and NPS.

Consider tax-efficient mutual fund categories to reduce liability.

 

2. Understand Capital Gains Taxation

Equity mutual funds' LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term gains attract 20% tax, so plan redemptions wisely.

Final Insights
Early retirement and comfortable living are achievable for you. Focus on growing your corpus with equity and balanced investments. Renting a house is practical if buying doesn't align with your goals. Work with a Certified Financial Planner to optimise your investments and ensure a secure financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 31, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 31, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
Hello, seeking your advice. Im 50. Currently working with an annual income of 40 Lpa. Assets : 3 houses with rental income of 90K, 1 flat for self occupancy. 1 Car, FDs - 12L MF - 15L, Insurance investments- 21L 1 site worth 90L, SGB - 10L, PF - 20L, SB a/c - 40L, Health insurance floater - 10L. No liabilities. Wife workimg. 1 daughter studying in plus 1. Looking to retire in 1-2 yrs. Thanks.
Ans: You have a strong financial foundation. You are close to retirement and need a solid plan.

Below is a detailed assessment and recommendations for a secure future.

Income and Cash Flow
Your current annual income is Rs. 40 lakh. This is strong for savings and investment.

Rental income of Rs. 90,000 per month is good. This will be helpful post-retirement.

Your wife is working. Her income will provide additional security.

Post-retirement, rental income and investment returns will support your expenses.

You need to estimate your monthly expense needs for the next 30+ years.

Existing Assets
Real Estate: 3 rental properties + 1 self-occupied flat + 1 site worth Rs. 90 lakh.

Fixed Deposits (FDs): Rs. 12 lakh.

Mutual Funds (MFs): Rs. 15 lakh.

Insurance-linked investments: Rs. 21 lakh.

Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs): Rs. 10 lakh.

Provident Fund (PF): Rs. 20 lakh.

Savings Bank (SB) Account: Rs. 40 lakh.

Health Insurance: Rs. 10 lakh floater.

Key Observations
You have significant wealth, but most of it is in real estate.

Rental income is good, but liquidity is low.

Only Rs. 15 lakh in mutual funds. This is low for long-term wealth growth.

Insurance investments may not be giving good returns.

Rs. 40 lakh in a savings account is not efficient.

You need more liquid and growth-oriented investments for retirement.

Action Plan Before Retirement
1. Liquidity and Emergency Fund
Keep at least 2 years of expenses in liquid assets.

Your FD + SB account has Rs. 52 lakh.

You can keep Rs. 15-20 lakh in a liquid fund or FD for emergencies.

Rest should be invested wisely for better returns.

2. Restructure Investments for Better Growth
Mutual funds should form a major part of your corpus.

Increase allocation to mutual funds from your SB account balance.

Move part of your FDs to mutual funds for inflation-beating returns.

Ensure investments are well-diversified across equity and debt funds.

3. Review Insurance Investments
You have Rs. 21 lakh in insurance-linked investments.

Traditional insurance plans offer low returns.

If possible, consider surrendering and reinvesting in mutual funds.

4. Rental Income Strategy
Ensure your rental agreements are updated.

Keep properties well-maintained to avoid tenant vacancies.

Check if you need to sell one property for better liquidity.

5. Retirement Income Planning
You need to generate income post-retirement from your corpus.

Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP) in mutual funds can help.

Debt funds and balanced funds will provide stable returns.

Ensure your portfolio is designed for both growth and safety.

6. Tax Planning
Post-retirement, tax-efficient withdrawals are important.

Rental income and mutual fund SWPs should be planned to reduce tax burden.

Take advantage of tax-saving investment options even after retirement.

7. Health and Life Insurance
You have Rs. 10 lakh health insurance. Ensure it covers critical illnesses.

Consider a super top-up plan for additional medical security.

If you have life insurance, assess if it is still needed post-retirement.

Finally
You are in a strong position, but real estate dominates your portfolio.

You need to move more funds into mutual funds for liquidity and growth.

Restructure insurance investments to avoid low returns.

Maintain enough emergency funds but don’t keep excess in savings accounts.

Plan your post-retirement income with a mix of rental, mutual funds, and fixed income options.

Optimize your tax strategy for withdrawals and investments.

Ensure your health insurance is sufficient for future needs.

A well-planned approach now will ensure a stress-free retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 25, 2025
Money
Hi Sir, I'm 34 unmarried female with partial responsibility for parents (they have pension) but full responsibility for another adult forever who is 36 years old at this time due to certain medical issues. My goal is to be able to buy a house in metro like Pune/Bengaluru where current prices have skyrocketed to 1.2 cr, in the next 2-3 years. My current savings and income is 13 L in FD, 7L in PPF, and 4L in MF. Current salary is 1.5L per month where my expenses are 20k monthly rent, 10-15k in total for other expenses like food/living etc. Monthly MF investment is 35k and 12.5k for ppf and i save as and when possible for FD. At this time slightly worried if I'll be able to purchase a home at all. Also I do not have any other loans, please help.
Ans: You are doing a good job managing your income, savings, and responsibilities.

Your goal to buy a house in a metro is clear.

But we need to go step-by-step to see if it fits into your bigger financial life.

We also need to check the long-term impact of such a decision.

Let’s analyse everything in a simple, structured, and detailed way.

Let’s look at your money from a 360-degree view.

Let us begin.

Income and Expense Control

Monthly salary of Rs. 1.5 lakhs is a strong base.

Your rent is Rs. 20,000 and other expenses are Rs. 15,000 max.

Total expenses are around Rs. 35,000 per month only.

This gives you a very good surplus of Rs. 1.15 lakhs monthly.

That level of saving shows strong discipline and financial maturity.

This is very positive especially as you have responsibilities too.

Current Investments and Asset Mix

Rs. 13 lakhs in fixed deposits is a safety cushion.

Rs. 7 lakhs in PPF is useful for long-term stability.

Rs. 4 lakhs in mutual funds is a good start for wealth creation.

Monthly SIP of Rs. 35,000 is aggressive and well placed.

PPF investment of Rs. 12,500 monthly is also consistent.

You are spreading risk and ensuring short and long term goals.

However, fixed deposits will not beat inflation in the long run.

Understanding the Housing Goal

Your target home budget is Rs. 1.2 crore in a metro.

This is a huge goal considering your current savings.

With 13L FD + 7L PPF + 4L MF = Rs. 24 lakhs total now.

It is hard to buy a home of Rs. 1.2 crore fully from this.

You may need to take a home loan of Rs. 80 lakhs or more.

Loan EMI on this amount will be around Rs. 65,000 to Rs. 70,000 monthly.

This can affect your MF SIP and other savings.

You also need to pay 10% to 20% down payment upfront.

That is around Rs. 24 lakhs minimum, which is what you already have.

But if you pay it all, there will be no emergency fund left.

Home Loan and EMI Risk Assessment

Taking such a large loan will bring financial pressure.

Your current surplus will drop quickly with EMI payments.

You may have to stop or reduce your SIP and PPF.

That will impact your long-term financial independence.

You are also responsible for one adult dependent lifelong.

So you need a strong safety net for medical and lifestyle costs.

A home loan will reduce your flexibility for that.

Your job is in the private sector, which can have income uncertainty.

Why Owning Property May Not Be Best Now

Buying a house looks attractive, but comes with hidden costs.

Stamp duty, registration, maintenance, repairs, interiors, property tax, etc.

These can total up to 10%-12% of home value over time.

Buying locks up your capital and reduces liquidity.

Rent is only Rs. 20,000 now, which is manageable.

You also have freedom to move for job opportunities.

Home ownership can tie you down, especially early in life.

Better to delay this until other goals are secure.

Investment Strategy Review

Mutual funds help you beat inflation and grow wealth.

Continue with your Rs. 35,000 SIP as long as possible.

Don’t reduce SIP to save for property down payment now.

PPF will build your tax-free corpus, so continue with Rs. 12,500 monthly.

Your fixed deposits can be slowly reduced.

Shift them into short duration mutual funds for better returns.

But keep Rs. 3 to 5 lakhs aside as emergency fund always.

Don’t go fully into equity without having a buffer.

Real Estate as Investment? No.

Property as investment has low liquidity.

Difficult to sell quickly if needed.

High cost of buying and selling.

Price appreciation not guaranteed.

Better to build wealth using mutual funds with Certified Financial Planner.

Action Plan for Next 2 to 3 Years

Delay home buying decision for now.

Focus on building Rs. 40-50 lakhs liquid net worth.

Keep SIP + PPF going without stopping.

Shift part of FD to balanced or hybrid mutual funds.

Review SIP portfolio yearly with Certified Financial Planner.

Build emergency fund for 6 months expenses minimum.

Create term insurance of Rs. 1 crore if not yet done.

Take health insurance for yourself and dependent.

Avoid ULIPs or investment insurance products.

Avoid index funds as they don’t beat market always.

Regular mutual funds via Certified Financial Planner give better support.

Avoid direct plans as they give no guidance or help.

When Should You Buy A House Then?

When you have minimum Rs. 35 to 40 lakhs corpus ready.

When EMI is less than 35% of your salary.

When you have 6 to 12 months emergency fund set aside.

When your SIP and PPF can continue without stopping.

When job and income feel stable for long term.

Till then, stay in rent and grow your investments.

You can invest even with property in mind.

Create a “home goal fund” in short to medium mutual funds.

Add lumpsum to this if salary rises or bonuses come.

Review property market every year with your Certified Financial Planner.

If property prices fall or income increases, reassess.

Extra Steps You Can Take

Avoid lifestyle inflation. Keep expenses simple.

Don’t buy car or other EMI-based assets now.

Keep salary hike savings 100% for investments.

Increase SIP every year as income grows.

Protect your dependent with medical cover and estate plan.

Consider creating a Will for your assets.

Keep updating your plan every year or with life changes.

Finally

You are doing very well at this stage of life.

Your savings rate is excellent.

Your investment approach is balanced and smart.

Buying a home now is not right timing.

It may reduce your long-term growth and flexibility.

Delay home purchase for 2 to 3 years minimum.

Use this time to strengthen your investment base.

Let your SIPs and PPF grow your net worth.

Use Certified Financial Planner for regular reviews and guidance.

Stay focused on what matters – stability, growth, peace.

House can wait. Financial freedom cannot.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 23, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 05, 2025Hindi
Money
Hello sir, I am 35 year old, and my take home is 75k, currently I have a debt of 10 lakhs, and I have no savings. I am planning on buying a rental income house of 50k per month on loan for 1.4 cr with a tenure of 20 years, please advise if this is a good plan ?
Ans: You are 35 years old. Your take-home income is Rs 75,000 per month.
You already have a debt of Rs 10 lakhs.
There is no savings in hand right now.
These three points are very important.

Let us understand them one by one:

Rs 10 lakhs debt means you are already repaying an EMI.

With Rs 75,000 monthly income, your cash flow is limited.

Having no savings makes your situation vulnerable to emergencies.

In this situation, buying a new property worth Rs 1.4 crore is a big step.
Let us assess the implications of this move from a 360-degree view.

Monthly Cash Flow Stress

Let us estimate how much EMI you might need to pay.

For a 1.4 crore loan with 20 years term, EMI will be around Rs 1.2–1.3 lakhs.

But your take-home salary is Rs 75,000.

You may expect rental income of Rs 50,000.

Still, EMI exceeds your monthly inflow.
This creates a negative cash flow of Rs 45,000 to 55,000 per month.
You are already repaying for the Rs 10 lakh loan.
This adds further strain on your cash flow.

You may depend on personal loans or credit cards in future.
This may lead to a debt trap.

Risk of Vacancy or Rental Delay

Real estate income is not guaranteed monthly.
Tenants may delay payments or vacate anytime.
You may lose 1 to 3 months rent per year during vacancy.

During those months, you will pay the EMI from your pocket.
This will create more financial pressure.
With no emergency fund, it becomes risky.

You Have No Emergency Buffer

You mentioned zero savings.
That is a very critical concern.

Any health issue can disturb your finances.

Job loss or income cut can cause heavy damage.

If tenants vacate suddenly, EMI burden will be yours alone.

A Certified Financial Planner always advises to build an emergency fund first.
3 to 6 months of expenses should be saved in liquid form.
That should be your first financial priority.

Buying Property on Loan: Costly in Long Term

Let us assess this step from a long-term view:

A 1.4 crore loan for 20 years can cost over Rs 2.8 crores total with interest.

You will repay more than double the principal.

You are expecting Rs 50,000 rent per month.

But there are other costs too.

Hidden costs include:

Property tax

Maintenance

Repairs and painting

Insurance

Brokerage for tenant

Legal issues if any

Your net rental yield may drop below 3% annually.
This is not a high return.

Alternatives Can Give Better Control

With Rs 75,000 income and Rs 10 lakh debt, here is what you can do:

Step 1 – Build Emergency Corpus First

Save at least Rs 1.5 lakhs in a savings or liquid fund.

This will act as cushion for any emergency.

It avoids borrowing at high interest.

Step 2 – Start Debt Repayment Plan

Pay off high interest debt first, if any.

Avoid minimum payments on credit cards.

Negotiate better terms with lenders if possible.

Step 3 – Start Small SIPs in Regular Mutual Funds

Start Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 monthly SIP in regular mutual funds.

Invest via a Certified Financial Planner.

Direct mutual funds give no advice or hand-holding.

Wrong fund choice can reduce your returns.

Regular mutual funds through MFD with CFP guidance give:

Professional fund selection

Rebalancing advice

Tax planning

Behavioural coaching in tough markets

Direct mutual funds have no such support.
You may choose the wrong fund and lose returns.
The so-called "savings" on commission can cost you much more.

Your Rental House Plan: Review Key Points

You plan to buy a Rs 1.4 crore property to earn Rs 50,000 rent.
Let us relook at key aspects:

1. Rental Yield:
Rent is Rs 6 lakhs per year.
On a Rs 1.4 crore property, that is just 4.3%.
After expenses, net yield is even lower.

2. Loan Repayment:
Total EMI outflow in 20 years is over Rs 2.8 crores.
Property value may not grow in the same proportion.

3. Illiquidity:
Property cannot be sold quickly.
If you face financial need, this becomes a major problem.

4. Leverage Risk:
You are trying to buy big with borrowed money.
This increases financial risk.
Your income cannot support the EMI even with rental inflow.

Better Alternative Plan: Step-by-Step Financial Building

• First 6 months:

Cut unnecessary expenses.

Build emergency fund of Rs 1.5 lakhs.

Clear part of your Rs 10 lakh debt.

• Next 6 to 12 months:

Start SIPs of Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000 monthly.

Take help from Certified Financial Planner.

Avoid real estate and ULIPs at this stage.

• Year 2 onwards:

Increase SIP gradually as income improves.

Clear your existing debt completely.

Build goal-based investment plan.

• Future plans:

Once you have Rs 15–20 lakhs corpus, evaluate property.

But buy only if cash flow supports EMI.

Prefer loan EMI not exceeding 40% of income.

Rent alone should not be your support for EMI.

Investment vs Asset Ownership

A rental house gives you ownership feeling.
But from financial angle, your focus should be wealth creation.

Actively managed mutual funds through Certified Financial Planners offer:

Flexibility

Tax efficiency

Professional fund management

Goal tracking

Liquidity

Real estate gives none of these.
Liquidity is poor.
Rental yield is low.
Buying on heavy loan is very risky.

Your Financial Stability Is Priority

At this point, your priority is stability.
Avoid aggressive financial decisions.

Debt of Rs 10 lakhs plus Rs 1.4 crore more can collapse your future.
Instead, take small consistent steps.

Build:

Emergency fund

SIPs

Debt repayment

Insurance coverage

Tax plan

This path leads to financial freedom.
Rental property can come later.

Avoid These Mistakes

Don’t chase rental yield with 100% loan.

Don’t invest all earnings into one single illiquid asset.

Don’t ignore insurance and savings.

Don’t assume rent will come on time always.

Don’t take emotional decision in property buying.

Finally

Buying a rental house now is not advisable.
Your income cannot support it.
Your savings are nil.
Your debt is already Rs 10 lakhs.

Real estate is not a good investment for your case today.
It creates heavy EMI pressure.
Instead, build foundation first.

Start with small SIPs

Clear existing debts

Build emergency reserves

Set clear financial goals

Get guidance from Certified Financial Planner

Take slow and safe steps.
That will take you to long-term wealth.
Don’t stretch your income for big loans.
Financial peace matters more than property ownership.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Reetika

Reetika Sharma  |417 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF and Insurance Expert - Answered on Sep 19, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 13, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi I am 43 years old IT professional having compensation of 80L per annum. I have health insurance of 30L for family. I have house of own so no EMI’s. I have 30 lakhs cash lying in FD, debt fund, 30L in stocks. My EPF is currently 1 crore and investment in Mutual fund is 1 crore out of which 70% is in equity fund, 5% in gold and rest in debt fund. I am doing SIP of 1 lakh per month. Other than that my monthly expense is 1 lakh. Wife is working as a teacher and earns 30K per month. Daughter is 2 years old and is in pre-school. Parents stay with us but not dependent on me. I am thinking of buying a flat which will cost me around 2.5 crore. Idea is to sell all stocks and mutual funds for down payment and take home loan for rest i.e. around 1 crore. Rent would be around 40K, but chances of future property appreciation is good. What do you suggest, is this a wise move or instead of buying flat I should invest more of mutual funds? Pls do consider, in current circumstances, job market in IT is not stable specially for senior professionals. Also, if i retire at age of 45 how much savings will I need ? Thanks
Ans: Hi,

I understand your dilemma. It is very common these days to decide what to do.
In your case, selling everything to buy a land doesn't seem a wise decision. Holding onto your funds and stocks can help you in early retirement.
However, if you get into another loan EMI, you will not be able to retire early. You have to work to pay off emi and will have no source to fund your retirement.

Hence best possible outcome here is to increase your monthly sIP to maximum to generate corpus to fund your lifestyle as well as retirement. As you said, you have a 2-yo, you also need to plan her higher studies which will require another 50 lakhs to 1 crore.

30L in FD and debt funds is good for your emergency. If you increase your SIP amount to 2 lakhs for another 4 -5 years, you can easily retire without worrying for anything.
Also for your daughter, start SIP of 50,000 into equity oriented funds for 5 years and let it grow till she turns 18. Her education expense will be sorted.

Also as your corpus is more than bare minimum of 10lakhs, I advice you to take a professional help as a guided portfolio generates better returns than a self-made one.

Hence do consult a professional Certified Financial Planner - a CFP who can guide you with exact funds to invest in keeping in mind your age, requirements, financial goals and risk profile.

Best Regards,
Reetika Sharma, Certified Financial Planner
https://www.instagram.com/cfpreetika/

..Read more

Latest Questions
Dr Nagarajan J S K

Dr Nagarajan J S K   |2577 Answers  |Ask -

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Dec 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 10, 2025Hindi
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 10, 2025Hindi
Money
I am 47 years old. I have started investing in mutual fund (SIP) only since last one year due to some financial obligations. Currently I am investing Rs.33K per month in various SIPS. The details are: Kotak Mahindra Market Growth (Rs. 1500), Aditya BSL Low Duration Growth (Rs. 1400), HDFC Mid-cap Growth (Rs. 12000), Nippon India Large Cap Growth (Rs. 3000), Bandhan small cap (Rs. 5000), Motilal Oswal Flexicap Growth (Rs. 5000), ICICI Pru Flexicap growth (Rs. 5000). I have also started to invest Rs. 1,50,000 per year in PPF since last year. Can I sustain if I retire by the age of 62?
Ans: I can help you with your retirement planning.
You have given a very detailed picture of your investments.
You have also shown strong intent to build wealth at 47.
This itself is a big positive start.

Your Current Efforts

– You started late due to obligations.
– That is understandable.
– You still took charge.
– You now invest Rs.33K every month.
– You also invest Rs.1,50,000 a year in PPF.
– You follow discipline.
– You follow consistency.
– These habits matter the most.
– These habits will help your retirement.
– You deserve appreciation for this foundation.

» Your Current Investment Mix

– You invest in various equity funds.
– You also invest in one low duration debt fund.
– You invest across mid cap, large cap, flexi cap, and small cap.
– This gives you some spread.
– You also invest in PPF.
– PPF gives safety.
– PPF gives steady growth.
– This mix creates balance.

– Please note one point.
– You hold direct plans.
– Direct plans look cheaper outside.
– But they are not always helpful for long-term investors.
– Many investors pick wrong funds.
– Many investors track markets wrongly.
– Many investors redeem at wrong times.
– This affects returns more than the saved expense ratio.
– Regular plans through a MFD with CFP support give guidance.
– Regular plans also help you stay on track.
– Behaviour gap is a major cost in direct funds.
– Thus regular plans with CFP support work better for long-term investors.
– They can correct mistakes.
– They can help with asset mix.
– They can help you stay steady during market drops.
– This gives higher final wealth than direct funds in most cases.

» Your Retirement Age Goal

– You plan to retire at 62.
– You are 47 now.
– You have 15 years left.
– Fifteen years is still a strong time line.
– You can allow compounding to work well.
– Your corpus can grow meaningfully by 62.
– You can also improve your savings rate during this time.

» Assessing If Your Current Plan Supports Retirement

– There are many parts to assess.
– You need to look at your saving rate.
– You need to look at your growth rate.
– You need to look at your future lifestyle cost.
– You need to look at inflation.
– You need to look at post-retirement income need.
– You need to see if your present plan matches this.

– Right now, your total yearly investment is:
– Rs.33K per month in SIP.
– That is Rs.3,96,000 per year.
– Plus Rs.1,50,000 in PPF each year.
– So your total yearly investment is Rs.5,46,000.
– This is a good number.
– This can help your retirement journey.

» Understanding Equity Funds in Your Mix

– You invest in mid cap.
– Mid cap can give good growth.
– Mid cap also carries higher swings.
– You invest in small cap.
– Small cap is the most volatile.
– It can give high returns if held for long.
– But it needs patience.
– You invest in large cap exposure.
– Large cap gives stability.
– You invest in flexi cap.
– Flexi cap funds adjust strategy.
– Flexi cap funds give managers more control.
– Active management is useful in Indian markets.
– Fund managers can shift between market caps.
– They can pick good sectors.
– This improves return potential.
– This is a benefit that index funds do not have.
– Index funds just copy the index.
– Index funds do not avoid weak companies.
– Index funds cannot take smart calls.
– Index funds also rise in cost whenever the index churns.
– Active funds can protect downside.
– Active funds can find better opportunities.
– This is helpful for long-term wealth building.
– So your move towards active funds is fine.

» Understanding PPF in Your Mix

– Your PPF adds stability.
– It gives assured growth.
– It also gives tax benefits.
– It builds a stable part of your retirement base.
– It reduces overall risk in your portfolio.
– It works well over long years.
– You have also chosen a steady long-term asset.
– This is beneficial for retirement.

» Gaps That Need Attention

– Your funds are scattered.
– You hold too many schemes.
– Each additional scheme overlaps with others.
– This reduces impact.
– It also becomes hard to track.
– You can reduce your scheme count.
– A more focused mix can give smoother progress.
– Rebalancing becomes easier.
– You can keep fewer funds but maintain asset spread.
– You can also map each fund to a purpose.

– You also need clarity about your retirement income need.
– Many investors skip this.
– You must know how much money you need per month at 62.
– You must add inflation.
– You must add health needs.
– You must also add lifestyle goals.

» Your Future Lifestyle Cost

– Your cost will rise with inflation.
– Inflation affects food, transport, medical needs.
– Medical inflation is higher than normal inflation.
– Retirement planning must consider this.
– You also need to consider family responsibilities.
– You must consider emergencies.
– You must also consider rising cost of daily life.
– This helps estimate the required retirement corpus.

» Your Future Corpus From Current Savings

– Without giving strict numbers, you can expect growth.
– You invest steadily.
– You invest for 15 years.
– Your equity portion can grow better over long time.
– Your PPF gives predictable growth.
– Your mix can create a decent retirement base.
– But you will need to increase your SIP over time.
– You can raise your SIP by 5% to 10% each year.
– Even small increases help.
– This builds a stronger corpus.
– Your final retirement amount becomes much higher.

» Need for Periodic Review

– Markets change.
– Life situations change.
– Your goals may shift.
– Your income may rise.
– Your responsibilities may change.
– Review every year.
– Adjust as needed.
– A Certified Financial Planner can help.
– This gives clarity.
– This gives structure.
– This gives confidence.
– You can reduce mistakes.
– You can follow proper asset allocation.

» Asset Allocation Approach for Smooth Growth

– You must decide your ideal equity percentage.
– You must decide your ideal debt percentage.
– If you take too much equity, risk increases.
– If you take too little equity, growth reduces.
– You must keep balance.
– It must match your risk comfort.
– It must support your retirement goal.
– Right allocation brings discipline.
– Rebalancing once a year helps.
– Rebalancing controls emotion.
– Rebalancing increases long-term returns.
– Rebalancing keeps your portfolio healthy.

» Importance of Staying Invested During Market Swings

– Markets move up and down.
– Swings are normal.
– Equity grows over long time.
– Equity needs patience.
– People often fear drops.
– They exit at wrong time.
– This hurts long-term wealth.
– You must stay steady.
– You must trust your long-term plan.
– You must follow guidance.
– This improves retirement success.

» Avoiding Common Mistakes

– Many investors pick funds based on recent returns.
– This is risky.
– Fund selection needs deeper view.
– Fund must match your risk.
– Fund must match your time horizon.
– Fund must have consistent process.
– Fund must show reliable pattern.
– Avoid sudden changes.
– Avoid chasing trends.
– Stay with a disciplined plan.
– This ensures better results.

– You must avoid mixing too many categories.
– Focused mix works better.
– Smaller set makes control easy.
– This reduces confusion.

– Do not rely on direct funds for long-term goals.
– Direct funds lack guided support.
– Behavioral mistakes cost more than the lower expense ratio.
– Regular plans help you stay invested.
– They help avoid panic.
– They help during reviews.
– They help create proper asset allocation.
– They help you use the fund in the right way.
– Investment discipline is more important than low cost.
– Regular plans with CFP support deliver this discipline.

» Inflation Protection Through Growth Assets

– Equity protects from inflation.
– PPF adds safety.
– Balanced mix protects your purchasing power.
– Retirement needs this balance.
– Long-term equity portion helps create a healthy corpus.
– This allows you to meet rising living cost.

» How to Strengthen Your Retirement Plan From Now

– Increase SIP every year.
– Even slight hikes help.
– Be consistent.
– Avoid stopping during market drops.
– Do a yearly check-up.
– Reduce scheme count.
– Keep a clear structure.
– Assign each fund a purpose.
– Build an emergency fund.
– This will protect your SIP flow.
– Continue PPF.
– It gives stability.
– It protects your long-term needs.

» Possibility of Sustaining Life After Retirement

– Yes, you can sustain.
– But it depends on three things:
– Your future living cost.
– Your total corpus at retirement.
– Your discipline during retirement.

– If you continue your present saving, your base will grow.
– If you raise your SIP each year, your base will grow faster.
– If you keep a proper asset mix, your base will grow safely.
– If you avoid emotional mistakes, your base will stay strong.
– If you review yearly, your plan will stay on track.

– So sustaining life after retirement is possible.
– You just need stronger structure.
– You also need steady guidance.
– This ensures confidence.

» Retirement Income Planning After Age 62

– Your retirement income must come from a mix.
– Part from equity.
– Part from debt.
– Part from stable instruments.
– Do not depend on one source.
– Plan your withdrawal pattern.
– Take small and stable withdrawals.
– Keep some equity even after retirement.
– This helps your corpus last longer.
– Do not shift everything to debt at retirement.
– That reduces growth too much.
– Balanced approach keeps your money alive.
– This supports your life for long years.

» Health and Emergency Preparedness

– Health costs rise fast.
– You must plan for it.
– Keep health insurance active.
– Keep top-up if needed.
– Keep separate emergency money.
– Do not depend on your investments during emergencies.
– Emergency fund protects your retirement portfolio.
– This keeps compounding intact.
– You can handle shocks with ease.

» Tax Awareness

– Be aware of mutual fund tax rules.
– Equity long-term gains above Rs.1.25 lakh per year are taxed at 12.5%.
– Equity short-term gains are taxed at 20%.
– Debt funds are taxed as per your slab.
– Plan redemptions wisely.
– Do not redeem often.
– Keep long-term horizon.
– This reduces tax impact.
– This helps wealth building.

» Summary of Your Retirement Possibility

– You have a good start.
– You have a workable time frame.
– You have a steady contribution.
– You must refine your portfolio.
– You must increase SIP yearly.
– You must reduce scheme count.
– You must follow asset allocation.
– You must stay disciplined.
– You must get yearly review from a CFP.
– If you follow these, you can reach a healthy retirement base.

» Final Insights

– You are on the right path.
– You have taken the key step by starting.
– You can still create a strong retirement corpus even at 47.
– Fifteen years is enough if you stay consistent.
– Your mix of equity and PPF is good.
– With discipline and structure, your future can stay secure.
– With yearly guidance, you can avoid mistakes.
– With increased SIP, you can boost your corpus.
– You can aim for a peaceful and confident retirement at 62.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10878 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 10, 2025

Money
I am 43 yrs old, have sip in Nifty 50 - 3500 Nifty next 50 - 3000 Nippon large cap - 3500 Hdfc midcap - 2500 Parag Flexicap - 3000 Tata small cap - 1300 Gold sip - 500 Hdfc debt fund - 700, lumsum of 10000 in motilal midcap and 20k in quant small cap. accumulated around 2.30 lakhs, started from June, 2024. But overall xirr is very less 3.11. Should I continue the above sips or which sips should be stopped?
Ans: You have started early in 2024, and you already built Rs 2.30 lakhs. This shows discipline. This shows patience. This gives you a good base for your future wealth.

Your XIRR looks low now. This is normal. You started only a few months back. SIPs show low return in the start. Markets move up and down. Early numbers look flat. They look small. They look discouraging. But they improve with time. They improve with longer SIP flow. So please stay calm. The start is always slow. The finish is always strong.

Your effort is strong. Your SIP list is wide. Your savings habit is good. You started at 43 years, but you still have good time to grow your wealth. Every disciplined month builds confidence. Your choices show that you want growth. You want stability. You want balance. This is a good sign.

» Current Portfolio Snapshot
You invest in many groups.

– You invest in Nifty 50.
– You invest in Nifty Next 50.
– You invest in a large cap fund.
– You invest in a midcap fund.
– You invest in a flexicap fund.
– You invest in a small cap fund.
– You invest in gold.
– You invest in a debt fund.
– You put lumpsum in a midcap and small cap fund.

This looks wide. But wide does not mean effective. You hold too many funds in similar areas. That gives duplication. That reduces clarity. That reduces control. You need sharper structure. You need cleaner lines.

» Why Your XIRR Is Low
Your XIRR is only 3.11%. This is normal. Here is why.

– SIP started in June 2024. Very new.
– SIP amount spread across many funds.
– Market volatility in 2024 made early returns look low.
– SIP returns always look weak in early days. They grow with time.

Low short-term return is not a sign of failure. It is not a sign to stop. It is only a sign of market timing. SIP is for long periods. Not for few months.

» Problem of Index Funds in Your Portfolio
You invest in Nifty 50 and Nifty Next 50. Both are index funds. Index funds follow a fixed rule. They copy the index. They do not use research. They do not use fund manager skill. They do not adjust during bad markets. They do not protect much in down cycles. They lock you into index ups and downs.

In India, active fund managers add value. They find better stocks. They exit weak stocks faster. They manage risk better. They use research teams. They use market cycles well. They often beat index returns over long periods.

Index funds look simple. But they lack decision power. They lack flexibility. They lack protection. They give average results. They track the market exactly. They cannot outperform it.

So index funds are not the best choice for your long-term goal. Active funds give more control and more upside over long years.

» Problem of Too Many Funds
You hold too many funds across the same categories. This creates overlap. Two different schemes may hold same stocks. You think you diversify. But you repeat exposure. This weakens your plan.

Too many funds also keep your attention scattered. It reduces discipline. You waste time comparing each fund. You feel lost. You feel uncertain.

Better to keep fewer funds but stronger funds.

» Problem of Direct Funds
If any of your funds are in direct plans, please take note. Direct plans look cheaper because they have lower expense ratio. But they do not give guidance. They do not give personalised strategy. They do not give support during market falls. They do not give behavioural guidance.

Many investors make wrong moves in market dips. They stop SIPs. They redeem at the wrong time. They switch funds too often. They chase returns. This reduces wealth.

Regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner keep you disciplined. They give structure. They give long-term guidance. They reduce errors. They reduce behaviour risk. This helps more than small cost savings.

Regular plans also offer better hand-holding for asset mix, review and goal clarity. This adds real value.

» Fund-by-Fund Assessment
Let me now look at each SIP.

Nifty 50 – This is an index fund. It is passive. It is rigid. Active large-cap funds do better in many years. You may stop this over time.

Nifty Next 50 – Another index fund. Very volatile. Very narrow. You may stop this too.

Nippon large cap – This is active. This is fine. It can stay.

HDFC midcap – This is active. Good long-term category. You can keep this.

Parag flexicap – Flexicap is versatile. Useful for long-term. You can keep this.

Tata small cap – Small caps can grow well. But they need patience. They also need limited allocation. You can keep, but maintain control.

Gold SIP – Small gold SIP is okay for safety.

HDFC debt fund – Debt brings stability. Small SIP is fine.

Lumpsum in midcap and small cap – Keep these invested. They will grow with cycles.

The two index funds are the most unnecessary parts of your plan. These can be stopped. These can be replaced with good active funds already in your system.

» Suggested Structure
You need a cleaner layout.

Keep one large cap active fund.

Keep one midcap active fund.

Keep one flexicap fund.

Keep one small cap fund.

Keep one debt fund.

Keep a small gold part.

This is enough. This gives balance. It gives clarity. It gives growth. It avoids overlap. It avoids confusion.

» SIP Continuation Guidance
Here is the simple view.

Continue your large cap SIP.

Continue your midcap SIP.

Continue your flexicap SIP.

Continue your small cap SIP.

Continue gold SIP.

Continue debt SIP in small proportion.

Stop the Nifty 50 SIP.

Stop the Nifty Next 50 SIP.

Move those two SIP amounts into your existing active funds. This gives you better long-term power.

» Behaviour and Patience
Your returns will not show big numbers for now. You need time. You need patience. You need consistency. SIP is not a race. SIP is a habit. SIP grows slowly. Then it grows big.

Do not judge your plan by the first few months. Judge it after many years. That is where SIP wins. That is where compounding works. That is where discipline shines.

» What Matters More Than Fund Names
The biggest cornerstones are:

Your discipline.

Your patience.

Your time in market.

Your stable SIP flow.

Your emotional stability.

These matter more than any fund selection. You are building them well.

» Asset Mix Guidance
Your mix of equity, debt and gold is good. But you should review this once a year. As you move closer to retirement, increase debt slowly. Reduce small cap slowly. This protects you. This stabilises your progress.

A Certified Financial Planner can help align your asset mix to your goals. This adds real value. This gives stronger structure.

» Taxation View
If you redeem equity funds in future, then keep the current rule in mind. Long-term capital gains above Rs 1.25 lakhs per year are taxed at 12.5%. Short-term gains are taxed at 20%. For debt funds, both gains are taxed as per your income slab.

This will matter only when you redeem. For now, your focus should be growth, not selling.

» Your Long-Term Wealth Path
You have good earnings years ahead. You have strong potential for growth. Your SIP habit is strong. You only need to clean your portfolio. You only need better structure. Then your money will grow well.

You can grow a meaningful corpus if you stay steady. You can even increase SIP when income grows. This gives faster results.

» Emotional Balance
Do not check returns every week. Do not check every month. Check once in six months. Check once in twelve months. SIP is a long game. Treat it like a long game.

Your small XIRR today does not decide your future. Your discipline decides it. You already have it.

» Step-by-Step Action Plan

Step 1: Stop Nifty 50 SIP.

Step 2: Stop Nifty Next 50 SIP.

Step 3: Keep all the remaining SIPs.

Step 4: Shift the stopped SIP amount into your existing large cap and flexicap funds.

Step 5: Continue gold and debt in small amounts.

Step 6: Review once a year with a Certified Financial Planner.

Step 7: Increase SIP amount slowly when income grows.

Step 8: Stay invested for long term.

Step 9: Do not judge returns too early.

Step 10: Keep your patience strong.

» Finally
Your foundation is strong. Your habit is disciplined. Your mix only needs refinement. Your returns will grow with time. Your portfolio will gain strength with consistency. Your path is steady. Your plan will reward you if you follow it with calm and clarity.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Shalini

Shalini Singh  |180 Answers  |Ask -

Dating Coach - Answered on Dec 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 10, 2025Hindi
Relationship
Hi. I have been in a long distance relationship since 6 months,and i have known my boyfriend since 10 months. He is very understanding, caring,and honest person. He had already told everything about us for his parents and their parents agreed. We both are financially independent. I told my relationship to my parents and they are against it as my boyfriend is from lower caste, different region, not done his degree from a reputed college but a local engineering college, and his status. They are thinking about relatives, and society what will they say, about their pride, status, and all the respect they have earned uptill now will vanish because of my decision. My parents are very protective of me and have given me everything and like me a lot.They are saying its long distance you might have met only 15 times you don't see this person daily to judge his character. If you have known this person for atleast 2/3 years, with u meeting him daily it would be different. But the person i met is honest from the start. They are hurting daily because of my decision. I cant go against them and be happy.
Ans: 1. It is wonderful you have met someone special and in last 10 months you have met him 15 times which averages to meeting him 1.5 times a month. Is it possible to increase this and meet over every second weekend. Can you both travel once.

2. Parents are parents they worry and all parents are protective of their children as are yours. But if they are declining you because of caste etc then please question them asking them to give you an assurance that if they marry you to someone of their choice things will work - In reality there can be no assurance given for any relationship - found by you or introduced by parents as relationships need work by both...both need to grow up, both of you need to be happy individuals for relationship to work + if colleges were the deciding factor then we would not see divorces of those who married in the same caste or are from Stanford, MIT, IIT, IIMs, Inseads of the world.

Here is a suggestion/ recommendation
- meet his family
- get him to meet your parents
- let both set of parents meet

all the best

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x