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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10902 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 06, 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
Asked by Anonymous - Apr 26, 2024Hindi
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hello sir im working in merchanr navy and taking yearly salary of 30-32 lakhs after tax. im 35, finished all my loans, never invested in finicial market but want to invest about 10-12 lakhs early please give suggestions.

Ans: Congratulations on paying off your loans and considering investing in the financial market! Here are some suggestions tailored to your situation:

Emergency Fund: Before investing, ensure you have an emergency fund equivalent to at least 6-12 months of living expenses. This fund should be easily accessible in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Investment Goals: Define your investment goals, such as wealth accumulation, retirement planning, or funding future expenses. Knowing your objectives will help you choose the right investment avenues.
Diversified Portfolio: Consider diversifying your investments across different asset classes to spread risk. You can allocate funds to equities, mutual funds, fixed deposits, bonds, and other instruments based on your risk tolerance and investment horizon.
Equity Investments: Since you have a relatively high income and a long investment horizon, you may consider allocating a portion of your funds to equity investments. You can start with mutual funds or direct equity investments, focusing on blue-chip stocks or index funds for stability and growth potential.
Mutual Funds: Mutual funds offer a convenient way to invest in a diversified portfolio managed by professional fund managers. You can explore various categories such as large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap funds based on your risk appetite and investment goals.
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP): Consider starting a SIP in mutual funds, where you invest a fixed amount regularly. SIPs offer the benefit of rupee cost averaging and can help in wealth creation over the long term.
Financial Advisor Consultation: Given your lack of experience in financial markets, it's advisable to consult a financial advisor or planner. They can assess your financial situation, risk tolerance, and investment goals to provide personalized investment recommendations.
Risk Management: While investing in equities can offer higher returns, it also comes with higher risk. Ensure you are comfortable with the level of risk associated with your investment choices and diversify your portfolio to mitigate risks.
Continuous Learning: Take the time to educate yourself about different investment options, market dynamics, and financial planning concepts. Continuous learning will empower you to make informed investment decisions and navigate the financial markets effectively.
Review and Adjust: Regularly review your investment portfolio to track performance and make necessary adjustments based on changes in your financial situation or market conditions.
By following these suggestions and seeking professional guidance, you can embark on your investment journey with confidence and work towards achieving your financial goals.
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.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10902 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 20, 2024

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I'm 25 years old I have 10 lakhs to invest plz advice me where to invest..
Ans: Congratulations on having a substantial amount to invest at the young age of 25. Let's explore strategic investment options tailored to your financial goals, risk profile, and investment horizon.

Understanding Your Financial Goals and Risk Profile
At 25, you have a long investment horizon ahead of you, which provides an opportunity to pursue growth-oriented investments. However, it's essential to consider your risk tolerance and financial objectives when selecting investment avenues.

Assessing Investment Options
With ?10 lakhs to invest, you have various investment options to consider. Let's evaluate potential avenues based on your goals and risk profile:

Equity Mutual Funds: Investing in equity mutual funds offers the potential for high returns over the long term. These funds invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks, providing exposure to the growth potential of the stock market.

Debt Mutual Funds: Debt mutual funds are suitable for investors seeking stability and regular income. These funds invest in fixed-income securities such as bonds and government securities, offering relatively lower risk compared to equities.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP): Consider investing in mutual funds via SIPs, which allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly. SIPs offer the benefit of rupee cost averaging and enable disciplined investing over time.

Balancing Risk and Return
Given your young age and long investment horizon, you can afford to take on a higher level of risk to pursue higher returns. However, it's essential to strike a balance between risk and return based on your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Emphasizing Diversification
Diversifying your investment portfolio across multiple asset classes and investment vehicles is crucial for managing risk and maximizing returns. Consider allocating your investment across equity and debt funds to achieve a well-diversified portfolio.

Monitoring and Reviewing Your Investments
Regularly monitor the performance of your investments and review your portfolio periodically to ensure alignment with your financial goals. Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to fine-tune your investment strategy and navigate market fluctuations effectively.

Conclusion
In conclusion, investing ?10 lakhs at 25 presents a significant opportunity to lay the foundation for long-term wealth creation. By selecting suitable investment options, balancing risk and return, emphasizing diversification, and staying disciplined in your investment approach, you can work towards achieving your financial goals and securing your future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10902 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2024

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Hi sir, I'm 27 un married , right now I have Lakhs rupee , where I have to invest, it's
Ans: Strategic Investment Options for a 27-Year-Old

Congratulations on your prudent decision to invest at such a young age. Let’s explore some strategic investment options tailored to your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Understanding Your Financial Goals
At 27, you have a valuable opportunity to build wealth over the long term. Let’s outline your goals and align them with suitable investment avenues.

Financial Goals Assessment
Short-Term Goals:

Emergency Fund: Build a contingency fund covering at least 6-12 months of living expenses.
Lifestyle Expenses: Plan for any short-term expenses like travel or personal purchases.
Medium-Term Goals:

Education or Skill Enhancement: Invest in courses or certifications to enhance your skills and career prospects.
Marriage or Home Purchase: Start saving for significant life events you anticipate in the next 5-10 years.
Long-Term Goals:

Retirement Planning: Begin building a retirement corpus to secure your financial independence in the future.
Wealth Accumulation: Invest with a long-term horizon to maximize wealth creation.
Investment Strategy
Diversified Equity Mutual Funds:

Equity mutual funds offer the potential for high returns over the long term.
Invest in a diversified portfolio of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds to spread risk.
Actively managed funds can outperform passive index funds, especially in volatile markets.
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP):

Start a SIP in equity mutual funds to benefit from rupee cost averaging and the power of compounding.
Regular monthly investments help inculcate a disciplined saving habit and reduce market timing risk.
Public Provident Fund (PPF):

Consider opening a PPF account for stable returns and tax benefits.
PPF offers attractive interest rates and tax-free returns, making it an ideal choice for long-term savings.
Risk Management
Emergency Fund:

Prioritize building an emergency fund to tackle unforeseen expenses without liquidating investments.
Park this fund in a liquid or low-risk debt instrument like a savings account or liquid mutual fund.
Insurance Coverage:

Secure yourself with adequate health insurance coverage to mitigate medical expenses.
Consider a term insurance plan to provide financial protection to your dependents in case of any unfortunate event.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Avoiding Impulse Decisions:

Stay disciplined and avoid impulsive investment decisions driven by market fluctuations or short-term trends.
Overlooking Asset Allocation:

Maintain a balanced asset allocation aligned with your risk tolerance and financial goals.
Rebalance your portfolio periodically to ensure it stays in line with your objectives.
Conclusion
As a 27-year-old investor, you have a long investment horizon ahead. By adopting a disciplined approach, diversifying your portfolio, and staying focused on your financial goals, you can set yourself on the path to financial success.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10902 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 16, 2025

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Col Sanjeev Govila, good evening. I am Col P Venkatachalam, retd from MCEME as HOD FIET in 2006. I want to invest Rs 10 lacs. Please advise me.
Ans: Your disciplined decision to invest Rs 10 lakhs is deeply respected. Let's carefully assess the options for you.

This response is structured for your complete understanding and peace of mind.

We’ll explore all angles: safety, growth, liquidity, and suitability for your life stage.

Let’s proceed step-by-step.

Understanding Your Needs First

Before investing, it's important to check a few things:

Do you need regular income from this amount?

Do you want to keep this money safe from loss?

Or, are you looking for long-term growth for legacy or future use?

Are you okay with some ups and downs in value for better returns?

Once your objective is clear, investment selection becomes easier and more purposeful.

If Your Priority Is Capital Safety with Some Growth

You may want to protect your money and still grow it better than FDs.

These types of investments are suitable for short-term or medium-term use.

You may explore actively managed short-duration debt mutual funds.

These funds give better returns than bank FDs in most cases.

Returns are not fixed but are usually in the range of 6% to 7.5% per year.

They also offer better tax efficiency compared to bank FDs.

You can redeem partially anytime if you need money.

These funds are managed by experts and reviewed regularly.

If Your Priority Is Monthly Income

If you want steady cash flows, you can consider this route.

Keep 6 to 12 months of expenses in a liquid fund.

Use the rest in a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) from a balanced hybrid fund.

SWP gives regular cash flow without touching your capital much.

You also get better post-tax returns than bank interest.

You can increase or stop SWP anytime you want.

If Your Priority Is Long-Term Wealth Creation

If you don’t need this money for at least 5 to 7 years, then growth becomes key.

You can consider investing in an actively managed equity mutual fund.

Your capital grows over the long term with the power of compounding.

You have already seen 5x growth in past equity investments.

That patience has rewarded you. Same can happen here.

Select only regular plans of equity funds through MFDs with CFP credentials.

Don’t choose direct plans as they give no guidance and no service.

Avoid index funds. They follow market blindly. They don’t manage risks well.

Actively managed funds perform better in changing market conditions.

Why Not Index Funds or Direct Plans

Many suggest index funds or direct mutual funds without understanding your life stage.

Index funds copy an index. No human checks or risk control.

During market falls, they fall just like the market. No safety layer.

They may not suit senior citizens looking for safer growth.

Also, direct plans have no support.

A Certified Financial Planner and MFD will guide and update you regularly.

They also ensure rebalancing and switching at the right time.

What to Avoid at This Stage

Don’t go for market-linked insurance plans like ULIPs or combo policies.

Don’t keep Rs 10 lakh idle in a savings account or low-interest FD.

Don’t lock the entire amount in long-term non-liquid products.

Don’t invest in real estate for rental income. It’s illiquid and stressful.

Tax Aspects to Keep in Mind

If you redeem your equity fund after 1 year, capital gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

For debt funds, gains are taxed as per your income slab.

SWP from equity funds is treated as capital gains. So, tax is lower.

You can plan redemptions smartly to keep tax low.

Avoid dividend payout plans in equity funds. They deduct tax before payout.

Instead, choose growth option and withdraw through SWP. That’s tax-friendly.

Sample Allocation for Rs 10 Lakh Based on Your Profile

This is a balanced idea assuming you don’t need regular income.

Rs 2 lakh in liquid fund – for emergency or unexpected needs

Rs 3 lakh in short-duration debt fund – for medium-term use

Rs 5 lakh in actively managed large and mid-cap equity mutual fund – for long-term growth

If you need monthly income, then replace Rs 5 lakh equity with a balanced fund and start SWP.

This will give you regular income with capital protection.

Flexibility and Liquidity

All these options offer full liquidity. You can withdraw anytime.

No fixed lock-in like insurance or annuities.

You stay in control of your money.

You also avoid penalty or surrender loss.

Review and Adjust Every Year

Check the performance every year with a Certified Financial Planner.

Rebalance between equity and debt based on your age and goals.

Make sure you are not taking more risk than needed.

If markets have performed well, book some profit and move to safer options.

If You Already Have Any LIC, ULIP, or Combo Plans

If any LIC or ULIP policies exist, kindly check surrender value.

If they are giving poor return, consider surrendering and reinvest in mutual funds.

Many old plans give less than 5% return.

Mutual funds offer more transparency and liquidity.

Make sure to shift wisely and not impulsively.

You Have Already Done Well

You are retired and still planning ahead. That is very admirable.

You also understand that income from equity mutual funds is not guaranteed.

Your discipline in sticking with equity for long term is wise.

It’s rare to see 5 times growth. You must have chosen well and held strong.

Finally

Based on your need, risk comfort, and goal, we can mix liquid, debt, and equity.

Avoid products which lock your capital or give poor return.

Prefer actively managed mutual funds with guidance.

Avoid index funds, direct plans, and fixed-return insurance schemes.

Keep part of your money flexible for any future need.

Ensure that your capital works hard but remains under your full control.

Periodic review with a trusted Certified Financial Planner is a must.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10902 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 04, 2025

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Dear Sirs!! Saurabh this side and serving in merchant navy. Yearly package of around 50 to 60 lacs. Home loan for which i pay 20k per month and investment in MFs of around 30lacs for which due to sudden rise in expense had to stop. Having pure term plan and Medical insurance. Need to ask how can i invest so that i can retire early and also fund my kids further or higher education and save some for myself too. Many thanks in advance.
Ans: Your income, discipline, and proactive mindset are truly admirable. Serving in the merchant navy with a high annual package is no small feat. Having term insurance, medical insurance, and already investing in mutual funds shows commendable awareness. You are clearly on the right path.

Let’s build a strong and complete financial plan for early retirement, children’s education, and long-term personal wealth.

» Income & Cash Flow Evaluation

– Your yearly income of Rs 50–60 lakh is a significant strength.
– With a home loan EMI of Rs 20,000, debt obligations are minimal.
– Sudden rise in expenses is natural. But if not corrected, it may delay your financial goals.
– Creating a simple monthly budget will help.
– Identify fixed and flexible expenses.
– Allocate money intentionally, not reactively.
– Try to save at least 40% of your income once expenses stabilise.

» Revisit Your Emergency Fund

– An emergency fund is essential, especially for you as you are away at sea.
– You should maintain 6 to 12 months of family expenses in a liquid instrument.
– Use fixed deposits or ultra-short duration mutual funds for this.
– Avoid equity or long-term debt funds for emergency reserve.
– This will protect your other investments from sudden withdrawals.

» Strengthen Risk Protection

– Having a pure term insurance policy is a wise decision.
– Review the sum assured. It should be at least 15 to 20 times your yearly expenses.
– This ensures that your family’s lifestyle and goals remain secure in your absence.
– Also ensure personal accident and critical illness insurance.
– This additional layer protects your wealth in case of serious illness or injury.

– Your medical insurance is another smart move.
– Ensure coverage is at least Rs 20 lakh on a floater basis.
– Top-up plans are cheap and effective for increasing coverage.

» Home Loan Strategy

– You are paying Rs 20,000 monthly EMI. This is manageable.
– Don’t rush to prepay aggressively if the interest rate is below 8.5%.
– Instead, focus on wealth-building investments.
– Interest on home loan also provides tax benefits under Sec 24.
– You can partially prepay if surplus funds arise, but avoid disrupting investment flow.

» Restart Investments Systematically

– Your Rs 30 lakh investment in mutual funds is a great foundation.
– Review existing funds for suitability to your goals and risk appetite.
– If these were direct funds, consider switching to regular plans via MFD with CFP.
– Direct funds lack guidance, periodic review, and rebalancing.
– Regular plans help with discipline and planning, and CFP-backed advice ensures suitability.

– Focus on goal-based SIPs.
– Begin with minimum possible amounts and scale up gradually.
– Priority-wise, plan for child education, retirement, and wealth creation.
– Use staggered investment approach across equity, hybrid, and debt funds.
– Avoid thematic or sector-specific funds for now.

– Avoid index funds. They lack downside protection.
– Index funds perform poorly during market corrections.
– Active funds have potential to beat index returns with proper management.
– This is especially true in India’s evolving market environment.

» Goal 1: Children’s Higher Education

– Start by calculating time left for each child’s college education.
– Based on current cost trends, assume 8%–10% annual inflation.
– Use SIPs in diversified mutual funds to fund this goal.
– Equity allocation should be higher in early years, then reduce later.

– If your child is very young, consider 70–80% equity allocation.
– Shift to hybrid and then short-term debt funds as the goal nears.
– Avoid investing in traditional plans like ULIPs, endowment policies, or child plans.
– These give low returns, lack transparency, and have high lock-ins.

» Goal 2: Your Early Retirement

– Early retirement is possible for you with this income and existing corpus.
– Start with a clear retirement age – example: 50 or 52.
– Then calculate years left and lifestyle cost after that.
– Don’t aim only for corpus. Aim for income-generating assets.
– Mutual funds (equity and hybrid) will be key.

– SIPs in growth-oriented diversified equity funds will be core.
– Add dynamic asset allocation and multi-asset funds closer to retirement.
– Avoid annuities. They offer low returns and inflexibility.
– Post-retirement, shift to SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan) in hybrid funds.
– This provides monthly income and tax-efficiency.

– Ensure that inflation-adjusted income is planned.
– Factor in lifestyle changes, healthcare costs, and travel needs post-retirement.

» Corpus Segregation & Goal Mapping

– Split your investment portfolio into goal-specific buckets.
– Don’t invest everything in one big basket.
– This approach builds clarity and discipline.
– Suggested buckets: Emergency, Child Education, Retirement, Wealth Creation, Short-Term Needs.

– Emergency corpus must be completely liquid and capital-protected.
– Child education and retirement should have mix of equity, hybrid, and short-term debt.
– Wealth creation fund can take higher risk and have long-term horizon.

» Consider These Practical Investment Guidelines

– Start with SIPs again, even if in small amounts.
– Gradually increase as income and surplus improve.
– Use goal-specific SIPs. Don’t mix multiple goals in one fund.
– Stay away from direct stock investing unless you have time and knowledge.
– Stick to mutual funds through a Certified Financial Planner and MFD.

– Avoid new-age investment fads like crypto, forex trading, or peer-to-peer lending.
– These lack regulatory backing, long-term data, and risk management.
– Instead, build wealth steadily and predictably.

» Monitor, Review, and Rebalance

– Create a fixed review cycle for your investments.
– Every 6 months or once a year, review progress with your MFD + CFP.
– Adjust allocation as per goal proximity and market conditions.
– Rebalancing avoids underperformance and keeps you aligned with goals.

– Never stop SIPs during a market fall.
– In fact, downturns are best for long-term wealth compounding.
– Emotional investing leads to poor results. Discipline creates long-term wealth.

» Tax Efficiency and Liquidity Management

– Long-term capital gains (LTCG) from equity MFs above Rs 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.
– Short-term capital gains taxed at 20%.
– Plan redemption smartly to minimise tax burden.
– Use SWP instead of lump-sum withdrawal.

– Debt MFs taxed as per your income tax slab.
– Hence, they must be used mainly for short- or medium-term needs.
– Keep cash or FD for sudden needs, not long-term money.

– Avoid keeping large money in savings account.
– Idle money loses value to inflation.

» Behavioural Finance Caution

– High income often creates false sense of security.
– Expenses grow silently, especially with kids and lifestyle upgrades.
– Ensure your financial plan is immune to this lifestyle creep.

– Don’t chase quick returns or jump from one scheme to another.
– Stick with the plan. Long-term thinking beats short-term chasing.
– Trust the compounding process.

» Legacy and Family Involvement

– Ensure nomination is updated across all investments.
– Keep your spouse and one close family member aware of your plan.
– Share a simple one-page net worth statement every 6 months.
– Write a basic Will if not already done.

– Financial literacy of the family is equally important.
– Involve them in decisions so that they can manage in your absence.

» How a Certified Financial Planner Adds Value

– A CFP helps build custom plans aligned to your life stage.
– Tracks your progress, and helps correct path when needed.
– Offers handholding during volatility and uncertainty.
– Regular plans through CFP and MFD give better behavioural control.
– No guesswork. Only discipline and smart execution.

» Finally

– You have the income, mindset, and discipline to retire early and fund your kids.
– You are already ahead of many.
– With clear planning and disciplined investing, you can achieve all your goals.
– Don’t be in a rush. But don’t delay decisions either.
– Restart SIPs. Review your insurance. Build liquidity. Allocate per goal.
– Stay the course and review regularly with a trusted CFP.

Best Regards,

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

..Read more

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1749 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 17, 2025

Relationship
one of my friend who is married from past 14 years having 2 kids (elder son 12 and daughter 8)...he was out of home deputed to site on project work by company for more than 4 months. During this period he did not visit the home but regularly available on call and in touch with his w... when he returned to home his wife was behavior was not normal as like earlier ... later he found out that his wife got involve with her college friend during this period ..... and they had physical 01 time during this period... now my best friend he is very caring and not able to forget this betrayed act by his wife... after all this he is not able to concentrate and focus on his work.. he love his wife so much and want to forgive her but how to handle this situation in decent way... he is not willing to divorce or parting his ways... request you to suggest some way out to get out of situation and lead a normal life as like earlier
Ans: Dear Navya,
He loves her
He wants to forgive her
BUT
He is not able to forget what his wife has done
Sadly, both these work in opposite directions...
If he is willing to rebuild his marriage, he does not need to forget what his wife has done BUT he can work on how to process what she has done. This is difficult to do...but he will need to understand what happened, the reasons for it, if the wife is still interested in the marriage and if both are willing to work together towards the future. If this seems a bit difficult to work out by themselves, I suggest that they see an expert who can guide them aptly.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

...Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1749 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 17, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 26, 2025Hindi
Relationship
hello mam, My son 19 year old from last 4 year his behavior change not listing not having food properly whole day watching mobile after 10th i put him diploma in electrical engineer he completed his 1 year but from 2nd year he stop going to college we both are working parent so nobody is there at home to force to go for college his teacher every day calling me to send him to college but he is not listing i ask him did teacher scold you or any student is troubling you he said no one is troubling me i don't want to study i want to do voice dubbing i want to give my voice for cartoon and for dubb movies in july 2025 he told me in 2028 i will leave both of you i have my dream i leave the home i ask him what is your dream he said 1st 2 dream i cant tell you but 3rd dream is to go to japan for tour i thought he is joking. In August 2025 he started going for voice dubbing classes in 1st week of August 2025 he told me my planning is change next month only i will leave both of you again i thought is just pulling my leg but on 15 September its regular Monday we both parent went for job and he called me around 12 pm and said daddy left the home not a single rupees he had with him and he left the home in full of rain he keep walking and talking to me i ask him where you are going but he said that's secrete i took his mom in conference and try convince him but he not listing with 1 hour talking with him on phone i ask him tell me the landmark where you are he told me one landmark while talking him i left office to reach the landmark he told i forcibly sit him in car and take back home with his mother after reaching home with his mother we are trying to convince don't do like this its your home we have only one child that is you but he said no today is the i want to go let me go don't fail my planning whole standing at home he said want to go without having water or food just crying and saying i want leave the home in evening at 7pm i told him give me three month i will send to japan for tour after hearing this he little bit convince but said repair my mobile which was shutdown due rain water get inside arrange visa and passport within three month and give new laptop for playing game but after three i will leave both of you and left the home in december 2025 he told me he will the home. he is very superstitious at home not having bath use same cloth he said if change cloth and have bath all my power will go after that incidence leaving home he become more superstitious each and every moment he whispering himself after asking why you doing this saying this is my power i will get what i want if i scold him he said i will leave home right now please help me what to do he not having bath not changing cloth not having afternoon food not cutting his nails from last 15 days i am very much in stress due to his behavior and stress about his future also he is not behaving like a normal child whole day and night watching mobile. Please help
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Please take him to a professional who can evaluate him. There are a lot of gaps in what you haev shared and a professional will be able to ask the right questions and be of better guidance to your son and your family.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10902 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 17, 2025

Money
Hi Vivek, I am 43 year old. I am currently working in private organization. Having an Investment of 8.0 Lac in NPS, 27 Lac in PF, 4 Lac in PPF and 2.5 Lac in FD. My child is in 11th Science. I have my own house and no any loan. I need to Invest around 80.0 Lac for Child Education, Marriage and Retirement.
Ans: Your discipline and clarity deserve appreciation.
You have built strong foundations early.
Many people reach forty without such assets.
You already reduced major future stress.
That itself gives you an advantage.

» Current Financial Snapshot
– You are 43 years old.
– You work in a private organisation.
– You own your house fully.
– You have no loans.
– This gives financial stability.

– Retirement focused savings already exist.
– Long term instruments form your base.
– Your money is spread across safety products.
– Liquidity is limited but acceptable.
– Growth exposure needs attention.

» Existing Investment Review
– Retirement related savings are meaningful.
– Mandatory savings have helped discipline.
– These instruments protect capital well.
– However growth potential is limited.
– Inflation risk exists over long periods.

– These assets suit long term security.
– They suit retirement stability well.
– They are not designed for high growth.
– Child goals need higher growth.
– Marriage expenses need liquidity planning.

» Child Education Time Horizon
– Your child is in 11th Science.
– Higher education expenses are near.
– Time available is limited.
– Risk capacity is lower here.
– Planning must be conservative.

– Education costs grow faster than inflation.
– Professional courses cost significantly more.
– Overseas options cost even higher.
– Partial funding support is important.
– Loans should be minimised.

» Child Marriage Planning Window
– Marriage expenses are medium term.
– You still have some time.
– Cultural expectations increase costs.
– Planning early reduces stress.
– This goal needs balance.

– Too much risk can hurt plans.
– Too little growth causes shortfall.
– Phased investing works best.
– Gradual shift towards safety helps.
– Liquidity must be ensured.

» Retirement Planning Horizon
– Retirement is long term.
– You have nearly two decades.
– This allows growth oriented approach.
– Inflation is biggest risk here.
– Passive savings alone will not suffice.

– Retirement expenses last many years.
– Healthcare costs rise sharply later.
– Regular income post retirement matters.
– Corpus must be inflation protected.
– Growth assets become essential.

» Understanding Rs 80 Lac Requirement
– Rs 80 Lac is a combined target.
– All goals have different timelines.
– One strategy will not suit all.
– Segmentation is essential.
– This avoids misallocation.

– Education needs immediate planning.
– Marriage needs medium planning.
– Retirement needs long term planning.
– Each goal must be ring-fenced.
– Mixing goals creates confusion.

» Asset Allocation Importance
– Asset allocation drives outcomes.
– Not product selection alone.
– Time horizon decides allocation.
– Risk appetite decides allocation.
– Discipline maintains allocation.

– Safety instruments protect capital.
– Growth instruments fight inflation.
– Balance avoids emotional mistakes.
– Rebalancing keeps strategy aligned.
– This is a continuous process.

» Role Of Equity Exposure
– Equity creates long term wealth.
– Equity is volatile short term.
– Time reduces equity risk.
– Retirement horizon suits equity.
– Education horizon needs limited equity.

– Selective equity exposure is essential.
– Quality matters more than quantity.
– Active management adds value.
– Market cycles require judgment.
– Discipline ensures success.

» Why Not Depend Only On Safe Instruments
– Safe instruments give predictable returns.
– They struggle to beat inflation.
– Purchasing power erodes slowly.
– Long term goals suffer silently.
– Growth becomes insufficient.

– Your current assets are safety heavy.
– Growth allocation needs improvement.
– This change should be gradual.
– Sudden shifts create stress.
– Planned transition works better.

» Education Goal Strategy
– Use conservative growth approach.
– Capital protection is priority.
– Avoid aggressive exposure now.
– Phased investing works best.
– Gradual de-risking is necessary.

– Education funding should be ready.
– Avoid dependency on future income.
– Avoid last minute borrowing.
– Keep funds accessible.
– Liquidity is key.

» Marriage Goal Strategy
– Marriage expenses are emotional.
– Costs are difficult to predict.
– Planning gives confidence.
– Balanced approach is ideal.
– Growth plus safety mix works.

– Start allocating gradually.
– Increase safety closer to event.
– Avoid locking money long term.
– Keep flexibility.
– Avoid speculation.

» Retirement Goal Strategy
– Retirement planning needs growth focus.
– Inflation is the silent enemy.
– Long horizon allows equity.
– Volatility should be accepted.
– Discipline ensures compounding.

– Retirement corpus must grow faster.
– Contributions should increase with income.
– Lifestyle expectations must be realistic.
– Healthcare buffer is essential.
– Regular review is necessary.

» Role Of Active Funds
– Markets do not move uniformly.
– Sectors rotate frequently.
– Index funds stay static.
– They reflect index weaknesses.
– Active funds adapt better.

– Active managers adjust allocations.
– They reduce exposure in weak sectors.
– They increase exposure in growth areas.
– This helps during volatility.
– Especially for long term goals.

» Why Avoid Index Based Approach
– Index funds mirror market direction.
– They cannot protect downside.
– They remain exposed during corrections.
– Investors feel helpless.
– Returns stay average.

– Active strategies aim to outperform.
– They manage risk dynamically.
– They suit Indian market inefficiencies.
– Skilled management adds value.
– This matters over decades.

» Regular Investing Route Benefits
– Regular route offers guidance.
– Behaviour management is critical.
– Panic decisions destroy returns.
– Professional handholding matters.
– Especially during volatile phases.

– Certified Financial Planner helps discipline.
– Goal tracking becomes structured.
– Portfolio review becomes systematic.
– Emotional bias reduces.
– Long term success improves.

» Liquidity Planning
– Emergency funds are essential.
– You currently have limited liquidity.
– One year expenses should be accessible.
– This avoids distress selling.
– It protects long term investments.

– Emergency planning gives peace.
– Unexpected events do not derail plans.
– This should be built gradually.
– Avoid using retirement savings.
– Keep it separate.

» Insurance As Risk Management
– Insurance protects your plan.
– It is not an investment.
– Adequate life cover is essential.
– Health cover avoids financial shock.
– Premiums are necessary expenses.

– Delaying insurance increases risk.
– Medical inflation is severe.
– Employer cover is insufficient.
– Family protection is priority.
– This secures your goals.

» Tax Efficiency Perspective
– Tax planning should support goals.
– Avoid tax driven decisions alone.
– Post tax returns matter.
– Simplicity reduces mistakes.
– Compliance avoids future stress.

– Long term equity taxation is favourable.
– Short term churn increases tax.
– Stability helps efficiency.
– Avoid frequent switching.
– Stay disciplined.

» Monitoring And Review Process
– Plans are not static.
– Life changes require adjustment.
– Income growth allows higher contribution.
– Goals may change.
– Reviews keep relevance.

– Annual review is sufficient.
– Avoid daily market tracking.
– Focus on progress.
– Ignore noise.
– Stick to strategy.

» Behavioural Discipline
– Emotions affect investment outcomes.
– Fear causes premature exit.
– Greed causes overexposure.
– Discipline balances both.
– Guidance helps immensely.

– Long term wealth needs patience.
– Short term market moves mislead.
– Consistency beats timing.
– Process beats prediction.
– Stay calm.

» Aligning Goals With Reality
– Rs 80 Lac goal is achievable.
– Planning must be realistic.
– Income growth will support it.
– Lifestyle control helps savings.
– Early planning reduces pressure.

– You already started well.
– Course correction is timely.
– Delay would increase burden.
– Action now simplifies future.
– Confidence improves.

» Family Communication
– Discuss goals with family.
– Shared understanding reduces conflict.
– Expectations become realistic.
– Decisions gain support.
– Stress reduces significantly.

– Financial planning is family planning.
– Transparency builds trust.
– It improves discipline.
– Everyone works towards goals.
– Harmony improves.

» Risk Capacity Versus Risk Appetite
– Risk capacity is strong for retirement.
– Risk appetite may vary emotionally.
– Planning must respect both.
– Overexposure creates anxiety.
– Underexposure creates regret.

– Balance is the answer.
– Gradual allocation changes work best.
– Avoid extreme decisions.
– Stay flexible.
– Stay focused.

» Final Insights
– You have built a strong base.
– Assets are safe but growth limited.
– Goals need segmented planning.
– Education needs conservative strategy.
– Marriage needs balanced approach.
– Retirement needs growth focus.
– Active management adds value.
– Regular guidance supports discipline.
– Insurance protects the plan.
– Liquidity avoids stress.
– Review keeps alignment.
– Patience creates results.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...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.

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