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Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |609 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Jun 23, 2025

Ravi Mittal is an expert on dating and relationships.
He founded QuackQuack, an online dating platform, in 2010 with just two people. Today, it has over 20 million users in India.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Jun 06, 2025Hindi
Relationship

Hello I am 24, from Noida. My girlfriend and I have been in a relationship for 3 years. I have introduced her to all my friends but she refuses to post pictures of us online, saying she values privacy. I have not met any of her friends. She says she doesn't have any. She hasn't added me on Instagram. I find her staying up late online. She doesn't respond to my texts. Once she accidentally called me from a different number and instantly hung up. Since then the number is switched off. I have confronted her but she doesn't want to discuss these things. I feel our relationship is like a secret game to her. If I refuse to buy her stuff she would block me for a few days. Is this normal behaviour. Should I worry?

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I want to defend her but most of her behavior seems unnatural. Ok, I agree, there are many people who don’t post couples pics. But I have met no one who doesn’t have a single friend and yet stays online till late at night. The different number thing sounds suspicious too and blocking you when you refuse to buy her things is downright manipulative and extremely weird. I am sorry but this isn’t normal behaviour in a healthy relationship and yes, you should worry. Maybe try having a conversation and reconsider the relationship depending on how the conversation goes. I am sorry you are going through such an emotional rollercoaster.

Best Wishes.

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Love Guru

Love Guru   | Answer  |Ask -

Relationships Expert - Answered on Sep 09, 2022

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Relationship
Dear Love Guru, I am 50 years divorced man in relation with a 42 years divorced women. We have known to each other for the last 7 years, but only for the 8/9 months we have committed to each other. We intend to marry. But she insists for 40 lakh money and 1 flat in her name. Then only will see agree to marry. She says if not given she will marry another guy who will meet her requirements. I am so much in love that I am thinking of giving her demands and marry her.  But the real problem is, she has many male friends with whom she regularly chats over watsup and messanger. She also goes for dinner with some friends.  Secondly, whenever we go to any group parties (her known) she flirt around with male friends, like taking pictures holding each other, dancing closely together etc. I after ask her dance with me or take snaps with me, she just avoids. I have seen many male friends of her touching her bump or cheeks or holding her waists, she never objects. But when I try to do the same, she objects saying what people will think etc. She tries to stay away from me during the parties. I constantly remind her to stay with me, she says not to be so possessive and allow her some space.  Previously we had sex once a month for 5/6 months, but for the last 3 months she has totally stopped having sex, she says will do it only after marriage. Whenever we had sex, she didnt seems to participate, she just tells me to finish off fast.  Again, I am only one who telephones her every night for talking. She never calls me. Throughout the day she never calls and rarely chats with me. After I propose or insists, we meet once in 10 days. she always prefers to meet in group of friends. With me she talks quite ok, but in group she becomes very lively and active. I am confused whether to proceed for marriage by fulfilling her demands. What if after marriage she repeats the same flirteous nature and not so committed towards me. Please advice and help. Regards.
Ans:

You're confused? There's nothing confusing about the situation -- this woman wants nothing from you except an apartment and money.

She doesn't call you, she doesn't hang out with you, she doesn't like acknowledging you in public, she doesn't like having sex with you and she'll marry someone else if you don't fork over the moolah.

Stop considering how to ruin your life and find someone who's happy with you even minus the Rs 40 lakhs and the flat!

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1639 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Oct 17, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 12, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
Hi im a 40 year old man engaged. We have dated for 1.6 months and then got engaged its been 3 months now. My fiance sometimes acts very weird. I am left on unread on whtsapp quite often. She has another phone that she uses where she gives out her number to guys that supposedly force her too. She says she has a difficulty saying no. I have caught her previously deleating texts and calls. She avoid all types of physical contact with me as much as she can. She use to say that she is not sure if im useing her for sex. Now i have proposed and we are engaged. Both our families know about us and are ok. Now that were engaged she says the actual reason "i dont like anything physical with you is because uou are a smoker amd your mouth smells." She spends the weekeends at my house. But there is nothing physical beween us. When we go out she acts like were a couple madly in love. When its just us shes busy on social media scrolling etc. when ever she goes out for wedding or functions i have found pictures with guys that she has tried to deleate from her phone with their arm around her waist . She blames me that i am insecure. I ask her why is she letting some random guy get so close to her. She says she is part of the brides team N thats how it is. She has been slected to be a bridesmaid a few times. Am i being paranoid or is something off. I have tried talking to her about all these and other issues Some how its always my fault or there is a reason that i dont understand. Please help i want an unbiased opinion on wht shld i do ? Talking is not helping And im scared since she is not from a well to do family she is only looking at me as somekind of finacial security
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
RED FLAG! If she acts different when you are alone and when you are outside, surely she is trying to pretend to be someone in either place, there's surely something that she may want to hide or show a side that she wants people to see...
If you are uncomfortable or in doubt, act wise and get to the bottom of it before proceeding any further. If she does not wish to talk about it, that does not mean you need to give in and compromise...
So, take a call on whether you want to live with a person who keeps secrets from you; you will have to spend most of the time playing guessing games!

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

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |615 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jan 29, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 18, 2025Hindi
Relationship
I am working abroad, while my Girlfriend is working in Delhi, living in NCR. We both were Dating since our College Days & have been in a Long Distance Relationship since I moved abroad, more than a Year ago & she moved to Delhi-NCR from Calcutta (where most of our Common Friends are based). While we were together with our Common Friends from College, we'd Travel, Party & have a lot of Fun together as a Group, since we all knew & trusted each other quite well, Irrespective of Gender. When we both moved to Different Places & started our Respective Jobs, we became Friends with our Respective Colleagues, but we have an Implied Understanding that we should be Maintaining Stricter Boundaries with our New Friends/Colleagues, since we are in a Long Distance Relationship. I've always honoured the commitment & have been Careful to not spend private time with any other Woman & Travel/Party only with a Group consisting of both Men & Women. But I am not sure my Girlfriend is doing the same. Quite often she keeps Travelling, Partying, Drinking & Sleeping over with some 2-3 Male Colleagues, who are quite close to her, but unknown to me. She doesn't even bother to keep me updated about where she is, what she's doing & with whom, but keeps Posting Status Updates on Instagram, from time to time and from what I have observed, she seems to be spending quite a lot of Time with these Male Colleagues of hers. All this makes me feel very Uncomfortable. Even though I Love & Trust my Girlfriend, but I'm unsure about these New 'Friends' of hers as I don't know them & obviously, I don't like them being so close to my Girlfriend. Many times, I've discussed this matter with my Girlfriend, trying to make her understand how I feel. But every time, I bring up this Topic, she tries to invalidate my feelings & shuts me down saying that I'm just Insecure. I'd also tried getting to know her New Friends in order to understand them better, but she doesn't share much about them, with me. Though, she keeps Reassuring me that they're 'Just Friends' they seem to be much closer than that. On several occasions, she had gone out with them, even though I had strictly forbidden her to. I don't understand whether she's unable to understand how I'm feeling or that she doesn't even care about my Feelings, though I still want to continue Loving & Trusting her, without Doubting her Loyalty. I don't understand what to do in this situation. How can I make her enforce stricter Boundaries with her Male Colleagues (atleast as much as I am doing here)? Shall I get a Friend or a Private Investigator to keep an Eye on her? Or shall I behave the same way, she's been doing? Or, shall I Break-up with her & try to find someone else, over here?
Ans: Long-distance relationships require an even deeper level of communication and trust than regular ones. You’ve upheld the boundaries you both implicitly agreed upon, yet it feels like she’s not holding herself to the same standard. The fact that she dismisses your concerns rather than addressing them is what’s truly hurting you. When someone we love invalidates our feelings, it creates frustration, self-doubt, and emotional distance. You’re not being “insecure” for wanting reassurance and clarity—you’re simply asking for the same level of respect and commitment you’re offering.

Trying to enforce boundaries by “forbidding” her from doing something isn’t the right approach, because boundaries should be mutual, not dictated. The more you try to control her actions, the more she might rebel or shut down, seeing it as you being possessive rather than expressing a valid emotional need. The real problem is not that she has male friends, but that she’s being secretive about them, not making an effort to ease your concerns, and disregarding how her actions affect you. A loving and committed partner should care about your peace of mind, even if she doesn’t fully agree with your perspective.

Hiring a private investigator or getting a friend to spy on her will only erode trust further, and mirroring her behavior by doing the same thing she does will not solve anything—it will just create more distance. If you’re considering breaking up, that means deep down, you already feel like your needs in this relationship aren’t being met. Before making any big decisions, you need to have one last honest conversation with her—not one where you accuse or demand, but one where you make it clear how this dynamic is making you feel and what you truly need from her to feel secure and valued in the relationship.

If she refuses to listen, invalidates your feelings again, or shows no willingness to compromise, then you have your answer. A relationship where only one person is making sacrifices isn’t sustainable. You deserve a partner who not only reassures you with words but also with actions that show she respects and values your presence in her life. If she’s unwilling to meet you halfway, then it may be time to ask yourself if holding on is worth the constant emotional struggle.

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Latest Questions
Janak

Janak Patel  |57 Answers  |Ask -

MF, PF Expert - Answered on Jul 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 07, 2025Hindi
Money
Hello Janak Sir.. hope you are doing well..I am 43 year old having 2 daughter 13 and 4 year).Currently I am having 75 lac in MF ,20 lac in FD, around 26 lac in PF and around 5 lakh in other investments.I have 2 houses one is loan free and getting rent for 10000 pm from it.For other flat where I am residing 29 lakh loan is pending and also having 6 lakh loan for car.I am investigating 55000 in MF per month.I am in hand income of 280000.My questions should I start paying loan fast for home loan(7 per) and car loan (9.2 per) by paying on lump sum to become debt free in 4 -5 year or increase SIP in MF?
Ans: Hi,

Your Financials look reasonably good even with some liabilities. Your liabilities stand at about 28% of your assets and 12.5 times your income, which is a healthy ratio by itself.

Your PF amount should not be considered for the purpose you have mentioned and let it remain for retirement. This amount may be earning about 8%, but its completely tax exempt and you should only think to withdraw post retirement.

You have mentioned 5 lakhs in other investments, you will need to evaluate these for liquidity and returns to support the below recommendations. If they are earning better returns than loan rates mentioned then do continue, else you can consider to liquidate and service the loan.

Car Loan -
Your car loan of 6 lakhs is at 9.2%, which I am sure is higher than the returns on your FDs. Returns from FDs are also taxable and clubbed into your income. Even at 7% interest you are effectively getting lower returns (under 5%) post tax. You will be in the highest tax backet based on income. So the car loan should be immediately closed with amounts from the FDs.

Home Loan -
You must be claiming some tax benefits for the home loan in your taxes. You can similarly decide if the benefits is better than the FD returns. Without EMI details, I can only assume and in a lot of cases they are better and hence claiming tax benefits continues. Also with your financial standing you can continue and build wealth now as the returns from Mutual fund investments will out weigh the pre-payment on the loan.
In numbers, lets consider you pay off the home loan amount of 29 lakhs in 5 years, your monthly contribution will be 57K and you would have paid approx. 34.25 lakhs to the bank. If you invest the same 57k monthly in Mutual funds, you would accumulate 47 lakhs in 5 years at 12% returns.

So yes continue with your SIPs and top them up with additional amounts you can and build a good corpus for the future.
Also the remaining FDs amount of 14 lakhs after paying the car loan can be better deployed. Keep about 3 months expenses in FDs and the rest can be moved to a Hybrid Mutual fund (e.g. HDFC balanced advantage fund) to earn better returns.
With 2 daughters, you will be looking to provide them education and better life until they are independent, so every rupee towards that big corpus is going be beneficial in the long run.

Do ensure you have sufficient term life cover and health cover for the family.
You can consult a CFP or a fee based advisor to get a comprehensive financial plan personalized for yourself. It will be worth the effort and money for a secured and bright future for the family.

Thanks & Regards
Janak Patel
Certified Financial Planner.

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8439 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 10, 2025Hindi
Career
My kcet 2025 rank is 37964 GM category Which top colleges can I get a seat in for ECE?
Ans: With a KCET rank of 37,964 in the General Merit category, you can secure confirmed seats in reputable ECE programs at institutions whose closing ranks exceed your score and that maintain key strengths—accredited curricula, experienced faculty, modern labs, industry linkages, active research and placement support averaging over 80% in the last three years. These include MVJ College of Engineering, Bangalore (ECE closing rank ~34,103), Ghousia Engineering College, Ramanagara (closing rank up to 39,498), SKSJT Institute of Engineering, Bangalore (closing rank ~28,046), Dr. T. Thimmaiah Institute of Technology, Kolar (closing rank ~27,561), New Horizon College of Engineering, Bengaluru (closing rank ~26,172), Sri Siddhartha Institute of Technology, Tumkur (ECE closing rank ~36,157), Oxford College of Engineering, Bangalore (high closing ranks for ECE seats), Maratha Mandal Engineering College, Belgaum (ECE closing rank ~117,323), Basaveshwara Engineering College, Bagalkot (closing rank ~122,228) and P.E.S. College of Engineering, Mandya (closing rank ~29,291). These colleges combine solid academic ecosystems, practical training and consistent recruiter engagement.

Recommendation: MVJ College of Engineering Bangalore for its balanced academics and placement consistency, followed by Ghousia Engineering College and SKSJT Institute of Engineering for strong infrastructure and alumni networks, then Dr. T. Thimmaiah IT Kolar, New Horizon Bengaluru and Sri Siddhartha Tumkur for robust industry ties. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8439 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 10, 2025

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8439 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 10, 2025

Career
Hello sir I am Divya and I am studying in great world and I choose PCB I want to do engineering Computer Science or can I do what will be my future career and does it suits
Ans: Divya, PCB students can now pursue B.Tech in Computer Science under NEP-2020 provisions and UGC’s 2025 guidelines, provided they clear national or university entrance exams and complete bridge courses in mathematics during early semesters, ensuring strong analytical foundations and industry-relevant skills for software development, AI, data science, cybersecurity and beyond. Ten top private institutions with high NIRF 2024?rankings that accept any stream via entrance tests include VIT Vellore (11), SRM Institute Chennai (13), BITS Pilani (20), Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (23), Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (26), Thapar Institute (29), Amity University Noida (30), Chandigarh University, KL University Guntur (35) and SASTRA Thanjavur (38), all offering robust CSE curricula, modern labs, interdisciplinary research, strong industry tie-ups and 80–95% placement rates over the past three years.

Recommendation: Embrace Computer Science through a B.Tech with mathematics bridge support, targeting VIT Vellore and SRM Chennai for premier facilities, followed by BITS Pilani and Amrita for research excellence; consider Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan and Thapar for balanced academics and placements. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |8439 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 10, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir, I got 94.51%ile in jee mains. I am confused as to which college should I choose in the cap round. Please suggest me a college for the branch Artificial Intelligence and data science, special in location like pune and mumbai.
Ans: With a 94.51 percentile, you can target Artificial Intelligence & Data Science seats in CAP rounds at several Pune–Mumbai institutions whose closing percentiles fall below your score, ensuring high admission probability while offering robust academics, modern labs, industry linkages, active research initiatives and strong placement cells averaging 80–90% over the past three years. Reputed choices include Vishwakarma Institute of Information Technology, Kondhwa (94.12%ile); Pune Vidyarthi Griha’s College of Engineering & Technology (91.71%ile); Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering, Pune (90.43%ile); Rizvi College of Engineering, Mumbai (87.47%ile); Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Technology, Pimpri (90.43%ile); Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology, Mumbai (87.35%ile); Terna Engineering College, Navi Mumbai (86.12%ile); and Vidyavardhini’s College of Engineering & Technology, Vasai (81.01%ile).

Recommendation: Prioritize Vishwakarma Institute of IT Kondhwa for its cutting-edge AI syllabus and placement record, followed by Pune Vidyarthi Griha’s CET and Pimpri Chinchwad College for strong industry partnerships; keep Rizvi Mumbai and Rajiv Gandhi Mumbai as high-value alternatives. All the BEST for Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9620 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
Hi sir, i am employee and age 39. I have 1. Home loan 62 L, tenure 240 months EMIs and 50k emi just stared from May-2025 and 2.home loan 11.8L, tenure 84 months EMIs and 19k emi. My monthly income in hand 1.06k. My PPF having 1L, Sukanya Samurdhi 2.2L, NPS having 21.8 L, SIP started with 10k per month from Aug-24 and equity having 1.5L. Family property received 10 acre dry land and 1 L per annum is coming. And i purchased 3 plots with 33L now worth 75L with earlier savings and PL i.e. all before 2017. Tel me better management of loans and savings. My retirement is April-2046, my son 7th class and daughter 1st class.
Ans: You are managing multiple loans and investments. Now let's work on a complete 360-degree solution for better financial management.

Understanding Your Current Financial Situation
– You are 39 years old with retirement in April 2046.
– You earn Rs 1.06 lakh monthly, which is a decent income.
– Your home loan is Rs 62 lakh with Rs 50,000 EMI for 20 years.
– You also have another home loan of Rs 11.8 lakh with Rs 19,000 EMI for 7 years.
– Your total EMI burden is Rs 69,000 monthly.

– PPF balance is Rs 1 lakh and Sukanya Samriddhi is Rs 2.2 lakh.
– You have Rs 21.8 lakh in NPS.
– Equity investments are around Rs 1.5 lakh.
– A SIP of Rs 10,000 started recently, which is a good step.
– You receive Rs 1 lakh yearly income from dry land.
– You also hold 3 plots now valued at Rs 75 lakh.

Your family consists of your spouse, son in 7th class, and daughter in 1st class.

Assessing Your Current Cash Flow
– Total EMI is Rs 69,000 out of Rs 1.06 lakh income.
– This leaves you with only around Rs 37,000 for all other expenses.

If your monthly expenses are higher, your savings will suffer.
So, your loans are eating a big part of your income now.

Analysing the Home Loans in Detail
Home Loan 1: Rs 62 Lakh, 240 Months
– EMI started in May 2025, EMI is Rs 50,000.
– This is a long-term loan, so interest outgo is large.

Home Loan 2: Rs 11.8 Lakh, 84 Months
– EMI is Rs 19,000, with 7-year tenure.
– This is a smaller and shorter loan.

Which Loan to Prepay First?
– Always prepay the small loan first.
– Prepay the Rs 11.8 lakh loan faster.
– This will free up Rs 19,000 EMI within 3 to 4 years.
– After clearing it, you can focus on the bigger loan.

Managing Investments and Loans Simultaneously
Don’t stop all your investments to pay loans.
But also don’t invest heavily while loans are pending.

Split your surplus cash wisely:

– Use part of your dry land income to prepay the small home loan.
– Use any yearly bonuses and incentives for loan prepayment.
– Don’t use equity or PPF for loan repayment now.

Your SIP of Rs 10,000 should continue.
This builds wealth for long-term goals.

Building Your Emergency Fund First
Before prepaying loans, build an emergency fund.
Keep at least 6 months of household expenses.

Park this in a liquid mutual fund or sweep-in FD.

This gives financial protection during job loss or medical issues.

Reviewing Your Insurance Cover
Check if you have pure term life insurance.
If not, buy it immediately for Rs 75 lakh to Rs 1 crore.

This will protect your family during your loan tenure.

Don’t mix insurance with investments like ULIPs.
Buy health insurance for the full family if not done yet.

Managing Existing Investments Wisely
– PPF and Sukanya are for long-term goals. Continue them yearly.
– NPS will support your retirement. Don't withdraw it early.
– Equity holding is small. Don't sell it now. Let it grow.

Your SIP of Rs 10,000 is a good start.
Keep increasing it by 10% every year.

Don’t stop mutual fund SIPs while paying loans.
You need both loan clearance and wealth creation together.

Avoiding Real Estate as an Investment
Your 3 plots have grown in value from Rs 33 lakh to Rs 75 lakh.
But plots don’t give regular income.

If you plan to use them for selling later, it is fine.
But don’t buy new plots for investment.

Real estate is illiquid and takes time to sell.
Also, managing dry land is not a consistent income source.

Future savings should focus on mutual funds, not plots or land.

Making Use of Dry Land Income
The Rs 1 lakh yearly income from land is helpful.

Use this income as below:

– 50% towards emergency fund and loan prepayment.
– 50% towards child’s future or your SIP top-up.

This way your passive income is also working for your goals.

Children’s Education Planning
Your son is in 7th class. Daughter in 1st class.

Their higher education will cost more in 7 to 10 years.

Start separate SIPs for their college education.
Allocate at least Rs 5,000 to Rs 7,500 for each child’s goal.

Mutual funds help beat inflation over the long term.

Don’t rely on Sukanya Samriddhi alone for your daughter.
It is safe but offers lower growth compared to equity mutual funds.

Retirement Planning Perspective
Your retirement is 21 years away in 2046.

NPS corpus is building well. Continue regular contributions.

Along with NPS, grow your equity mutual fund investments.
They will give higher growth in your working years.

Later, shift to balanced funds closer to retirement.

Cash Flow Management Month by Month
Your cash flow is tight due to high EMIs.

Try this plan:

– Household and lifestyle expenses: Rs 30,000 to Rs 35,000.
– EMIs: Rs 69,000.
– SIPs: Rs 10,000.
– Emergency fund build-up: Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000.

If expenses exceed this, cut down on lifestyle spends.
Postpone luxury buys and vacations for 3 to 4 years.

Suggested Loan Prepayment Strategy Timeline
Year 1 to 4:

– Build emergency fund first.
– Prepay the small home loan slowly.
– Try to clear the Rs 11.8 lakh loan in 4 years.

Year 5 onwards:

– Focus on the Rs 62 lakh loan.
– Increase prepayment using the freed Rs 19,000 EMI.
– Target to close it in 10 to 12 years instead of 20.

This reduces your debt burden before retirement.

Should You Sell the Plots?
Don’t sell them immediately unless facing a cash crunch.
Plots have appreciated well and may grow further.

But if your cash flow becomes very tight, sell one plot.
Use the sale proceeds to clear the bigger home loan partly.

Selling plots reduces your interest burden faster.

Discuss this step with a Certified Financial Planner before selling.

Future Financial Milestones to Focus On
– Build Rs 5 lakh emergency fund in 3 years.
– Clear the small home loan in 4 years.
– Increase your SIPs gradually to Rs 20,000 monthly.
– Build your children's higher education fund in 10 years.
– Clear the big home loan 5 years before retirement.
– Build a retirement corpus to cover 25 to 30 years post-retirement.

Why You Shouldn’t Pause SIPs for Loans
Some people pause SIPs to repay loans fast.
This is wrong because they lose long-term compounding.

Keep your SIPs running while prepaying loans side by side.
This balance builds both wealth and peace of mind.

Avoid Index Funds and Direct Funds
Don’t choose index funds.

– Index funds blindly follow the market.
– They don’t protect you in market crashes.
– Actively managed funds give better long-term results.

Also, avoid direct mutual funds.

– Direct funds give no expert guidance.
– You will be confused during market falls.

Instead, invest in regular funds through an MFD holding CFP credential.
They provide handholding, monitoring, and rebalancing.

This is very important for a working family man like you.

Keeping a Long-Term View
Don’t get stressed by your present EMI load.
In 3 to 5 years, your cash flow will ease.

Your children’s education, your retirement, and a debt-free life are achievable.
Stay disciplined and avoid distractions like real estate investments.

Finally
Your financial journey has good foundations already.
Two things need improvement now. First, your high loan burden. Second, consistent wealth creation.

Take these steps next:

– Focus first on clearing the small home loan in 4 years.
– Continue SIPs and grow them over time.
– Avoid any more real estate purchases.
– Use dry land income wisely for wealth building and debt clearing.
– Review your plan yearly with a Certified Financial Planner.

In the long term, you will achieve both debt freedom and wealth growth.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9620 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 30, 2025Hindi
Money
Planning to retire now at age of 50. My assets are 65L in PF,60L in PPF. 20L IN SSA, NPS 24L, ICICI PRU pension 13L, lic jeevan shanthi 14L, FD 100L. My monthly expenses 75000 Real estate woth 100L. NO Liabilities.
Ans: Planning retirement at age 50 is a bold move. You have built assets carefully. Now the focus should be on income, sustainability, and safety.

Let’s assess your financial position from all angles. I will explain in a simple and step-by-step manner.

Your Retirement Goal and Key Considerations
– You are 50 years old and wish to retire now.
– Monthly expenses are Rs. 75,000. That is Rs. 9 lakhs yearly.
– You may live 35+ years post-retirement.
– Your funds must last till 85–90 years of age.
– Inflation will reduce value of Rs. 75,000 over time.

You need income that grows every year. Fixed income is not enough.

Total Financial Assets at Present
Let us list your liquid and financial assets.

– PF: Rs. 65 lakhs
– PPF: Rs. 60 lakhs
– SSA: Rs. 20 lakhs
– NPS: Rs. 24 lakhs
– ICICI PRU Pension: Rs. 13 lakhs
– LIC Jeevan Shanti: Rs. 14 lakhs
– Fixed Deposits: Rs. 100 lakhs

This totals to Rs. 296 lakhs or Rs. 2.96 crores.

This is a solid foundation. You’ve done well.

Real Estate – Not a Retirement Resource
– You mentioned real estate worth Rs. 100 lakhs.
– But it is not liquid. It cannot give you monthly income.
– It is not counted as part of retirement corpus.
– Only consider it if you plan to sell or rent it.

Avoid counting real estate as your retirement support.

EPF – Solid but Withdrawal Must Be Planned
– Your PF amount is Rs. 65 lakhs.
– It is a great long-term resource.
– It earns interest but reduces after retirement.
– Withdraw slowly. Don’t touch entire amount.
– Use this only for medium-term income needs.

Don’t keep it idle. Also don’t exhaust it fast.

PPF – Safe and Tax-Free, But Not Liquid
– You have Rs. 60 lakhs in PPF.
– It gives safe and tax-free returns.
– But it has withdrawal limits.
– You can use partial withdrawals yearly.

Use this for your tax-free income ladder later.

SSA – For Daughter’s Future, Not Retirement
– You have Rs. 20 lakhs in Sukanya Samriddhi Account.
– This is strictly for daughter’s future.
– It matures when she turns 21.
– Don’t use this for retirement.

This is a separate goal and cannot support monthly income.

NPS – Locked Till 60
– Your NPS corpus is Rs. 24 lakhs.
– You cannot withdraw full amount now.
– Only 20% is allowed before age 60.
– Rest 80% must be converted later.

Don’t plan income from NPS immediately. Consider it post age 60.

ICICI PRU Pension – Low Liquidity, Limited Growth
– You have Rs. 13 lakhs in pension product.
– Liquidity and returns are usually limited.
– Review surrender value and charges.
– You may consider surrender if it’s past lock-in.
– Shift to flexible mutual fund-based retirement solution.

Insurance-pension products underperform compared to mutual funds.

LIC Jeevan Shanti – Income Unclear
– Rs. 14 lakhs is locked in LIC Jeevan Shanti.
– It is an annuity-type product.
– Low flexibility and low income.
– You cannot exit or restructure easily.

Continue taking income from it, but don’t invest further.

Fixed Deposits – Too Much Allocation
– You have Rs. 100 lakhs in fixed deposits.
– This is a very high portion in debt.
– FD interest is taxable.
– FD returns rarely beat inflation.
– Long-term money must grow better.

Reduce FD allocation over time. Shift some to mutual funds for growth.

Monthly Expense of Rs. 75,000 – Will Keep Rising
– Today it is Rs. 75,000 monthly.
– In 10 years, it may become Rs. 1.4 lakhs.
– In 20 years, may cross Rs. 2.5 lakhs monthly.
– Your retirement income must grow to match this.

Don’t build a flat income plan. Build a growing income plan.

Safe Withdrawal Strategy is Key
– Withdraw only what you need each year.
– Don’t break all accounts in one go.
– Create three buckets: short-term, medium, long-term.

Short-term (next 3 years):
– Use FD and small withdrawals from PF/PPF.

Medium-term (4 to 10 years):
– Use balanced and hybrid mutual funds.

Long-term (beyond 10 years):
– Use equity mutual funds for growth.
– These will support you from age 60 onwards.

You Should Build Mutual Fund Corpus Now
– You have not mentioned mutual funds yet.
– That’s a gap in your retirement mix.
– Mutual funds give flexible, inflation-beating growth.
– Use SWP method for monthly income.

Shift some FD into mutual funds. Plan with Certified Financial Planner.

Do Not Consider Index Funds
– Index funds just copy the market.
– They don’t protect during market falls.
– Active funds manage volatility better.
– You need dependable income and not market-linked surprises.

Avoid index funds. Use actively managed mutual funds only.

Direct Mutual Funds – Avoid if Used
– If you invest in direct plans, you get no support.
– Mistakes in fund choice and timing hurt returns.
– Use regular plans with a Certified Financial Planner.
– You get monitoring, advice, and emotional support.

Regular plan with CFP adds long-term value and peace of mind.

Retirement Plan Must Be Reviewed Yearly
– Inflation and market performance keep changing.
– Track your spending and income every year.
– Rebalance your investment mix with expert help.
– Avoid over-withdrawing in early years.

Retirement is not one-time event. It needs yearly tuning.

Emergency Buffer Must Be Separate
– Keep 12 months of expenses in ultra-safe assets.
– Use short-term FD, liquid mutual fund, or sweep account.
– This protects you during any income gap or emergency.

Emergency funds must not be mixed with long-term plans.

Tax Planning Will Impact Real Returns
– FD interest is fully taxable.
– PPF and EPF are tax-free.
– Mutual fund capital gains are taxed:

LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh at 12.5%

STCG at 20%
– Plan withdrawal to reduce tax every year.

Tax planning will increase your real income over 35+ years.

Protection Planning Must Be in Place
– Check health insurance cover.
– Should be minimum Rs. 20–25 lakhs.
– Add super top-up if needed.
– Review if you still need life insurance.

Medical cost is one big threat in retirement.

Real Estate – Keep It for Peace of Mind Only
– Don’t count property in your retirement plan.
– It gives no income unless rented.
– Selling it may take time and has tax issues.
– Keep it as fallback or asset transfer to children.

Real estate is not liquid or income-friendly. Keep expectations realistic.

Your Plan is Almost There – Few Gaps Remain
– You have good corpus.
– You have no liabilities.
– You are not investing in mutual funds – that’s a gap.
– FD is over-used. Needs partial shift.
– You are not factoring inflation yet.
– Your insurance-linked plans restrict liquidity.

With some tuning, you can retire securely now.

Finally
– You have saved wisely across multiple assets.
– You have no debt, which is a strength.
– Monthly income of Rs. 75,000 is possible.
– But it must grow every few years.
– Don’t depend only on FDs or pensions.
– Use mutual funds for growth and flexibility.
– Avoid index funds and direct funds.
– Keep PPF, PF, NPS for future income stages.
– Review plan every year with Certified Financial Planner.
– Keep healthcare and emergency fund active.

Retirement at 50 is possible. But requires disciplined management ahead.

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9620 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 30, 2025Hindi
Money
I am a 36 year old, have a dependent wife and recently switched my job with 17000 to 37000. In 37000 I have to pay 10000 food and other expenses,and 10000 rent. My savings is hardly any as all goes in emi and still few I am unable to pay for past 5 months.Recently got married in December and having personal loan of 170000, 40000,40000, 230000 and gold loans of 550000. I lost my savings and got into debt because of losing money in stock trading. I lost around 7 lakhs. 230000 personal loan is for a period of 5 years and already paid 1.5 yrs, rest personal loan are through app and for short period. For the past 5 months I am unable to pay them any installment and asked them for grace period and waiver and also one time settlement with time. I am in great stress and I don't know how to come out of it. I need your suggestion. If you need any more info for better understanding please let me know.
Ans: Understanding Your Current Situation
– You are 36 years old
– Your monthly income is now Rs. 37,000
– Expenses for food and rent come to Rs. 20,000
– That leaves Rs. 17,000 before any loan payments

– You have gold loans worth Rs. 5.5 lakh
– You have multiple personal loans totalling Rs. 4.8 lakh
– So total outstanding loan is nearly Rs. 10.3 lakh

– For past 5 months, you are unable to pay some EMIs
– Your savings have been wiped out due to stock trading losses

– You are newly married and have a dependent spouse
– Emotional stress is very natural in this phase
– But please know, this is a temporary phase

– With structured steps, you can recover

First Steps You Must Take Now
– Do not panic or feel alone
– Financial struggles happen to many, recovery is always possible

– Stop any form of stock market activity
– Do not trade or invest until your debt is cleared

– Make your spouse aware of the situation
– Transparency will reduce pressure on you

– Write down all your loans with amount, lender name, and EMI amount
– Prioritise loans with high interest or legal risk

– App-based loans often charge high interest and penalties
– These can grow fast if not handled on time

– Keep all communication with these app lenders in writing
– Always email them or talk through the official app chat
– Do not speak with recovery agents unofficially or under pressure

Segregate Loans by Nature
Gold Loan
– Amount: Rs. 5.5 lakh
– It is secured loan. Your gold is the collateral
– This should be prioritised after legal loans

– Try not to default for long, or you may lose the pledged gold

– But this can be handled slightly later than app loans

Personal Loans through Banks/NBFC
– Rs. 2.3 lakh loan with 3.5 years left
– Plus other loans of Rs. 1.7 lakh and Rs. 40,000 each

– Bank/NBFC loans are structured and regulated
– Speak with these lenders and request restructuring or settlement

– Show proof of income drop and recent marriage
– Some may allow EMI deferment or lower EMI

– Avoid taking new loans to repay these

App-Based Loans
– These loans usually carry very high rates
– They may harass you with calls and messages

– Email their customer care and request a one-time settlement
– Explain that your income is limited and you are willing to pay in parts

– Take screenshots of your emails or chats for record
– Do not accept verbal promises

– If they threaten or misuse your contact list, you can file a police complaint
– Harassment by digital lenders is now punishable

Restructure or Close Loans One by One
– Focus on settling one loan at a time
– Start with smallest or high-stress app loans
– Even if you save Rs. 3,000/month, you can close small loans in time

– Request one-time settlements for overdue loans
– Start repaying once they agree on reduced amount

– Gold loan should be addressed once unsecured loans are under control
– You can also ask gold loan provider for EMI-based repayment option

– If possible, borrow interest-free from family to close any one loan
– But do not borrow again to pay another loan unless it’s zero-interest

Household Budgeting to Create Monthly Surplus
– Right now, you have Rs. 17,000 left after rent and food
– Create a very strict budget for now
– Avoid online purchases, subscriptions, or eating out

– Set aside Rs. 10,000 monthly only for debt
– The rest can be for phone bill, transport, etc.

– Every single rupee should go into priority-based loan repayment
– In next few months, small wins will reduce your mental burden

Increase Income With Temporary Side Income
– Explore freelance, weekend work, or part-time online jobs
– Focus on skill-based extra income like tuition, typing, or delivery apps

– Even Rs. 5,000 extra monthly can fast-track your repayment

– Avoid thinking too long term for now
– Every short-term gain can ease your pressure

Credit Score and Future Access
– Right now, your credit score may be falling due to missed EMIs
– But once you repay or settle even a few loans, it starts improving

– Ask for “No Due Certificate” after each settlement or closure
– Keep all records for future reference

– Do not apply for new loans until existing ones are cleared

– In future, avoid personal loans for non-emergency needs

– Build credit again slowly with secured cards or small EMIs later

Stop All Risky Investments Now
– Do not put money in stocks, trading, or crypto
– You already faced big loss of Rs. 7 lakh
– That must not be repeated again

– Learn from it, but do not feel ashamed
– Take this phase as a valuable financial lesson

– Once stable, build long-term wealth only through proper mutual fund SIPs

– Use regular mutual funds with guidance from Certified Financial Planner

Should You Use Direct Mutual Funds Later?
– Direct funds look cheaper, but they have no personalised help
– No one will guide you during market fall or life changes

– You may stop SIP in panic or invest in wrong category

– Regular mutual funds through a trusted Certified Financial Planner offer help
– They offer timely review, rebalancing, and goal tracking

– That makes the cost worth it and returns more steady

– So when you are ready, choose regular plan over direct

Mental Health and Family Support
– Financial stress also affects health and relationship
– Don’t hide the burden from your spouse or close family

– Explain your step-by-step plan to them
– Their emotional support can strengthen you

– Avoid social media distractions or online offers promising fast loans or trading profits

– Stay grounded, follow the basics, and focus only on clearing one loan at a time

Talk to a Certified Financial Planner
– Once your loan burden is lighter, consult a Certified Financial Planner
– They can create a full plan for your long-term goals
– They also help track expenses, risk, and savings in a realistic way

– This builds discipline and gives clear goals to work toward

– Don’t wait to become rich to seek expert help
– Expert advice early helps recover faster and smarter

Finally
Your situation may feel tough today. But it is not permanent. With patience and right steps, you can come out stronger.

Start with a clear list of loans. Focus on one closure at a time. Do not take new loans. Avoid risk investments. Control expenses. And most importantly, keep mental calm.

Remember, building wealth comes after clearing debt. And financial freedom comes only with peace of mind.

You are already on the right track by asking for help. Keep moving forward.

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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