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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |595 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Apr 18, 2023

Kanchan Rai has 10 years of experience in therapy, nurturing soft skills and leadership coaching. She is the founder of the Let Us Talk Foundation, which offers mindfulness workshops to help people stay emotionally and mentally healthy.
Rai has a degree in leadership development and customer centricity from Harvard Business School, Boston. She is an internationally certified coach from the International Coaching Federation, a global organisation in professional coaching.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Apr 18, 2023Hindi
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Relationship

Hello, Firstly thank for your time, Well I am looking for some guidance regarding my married life, I am 40 yrs old man, married for 9 yrs, with a 7 year old daughter, ours was a love marriage with some ups and downs initially, but with time both of our families became supportive of us and the relationship continued. But 3 years back I caught my wife red handed having an affair with someone who worked for me. This broke me totally, made me feel embarrassed and since then it has been really difficult for me, but what broke me even further was my wife blames me for she taking such decisions in her life, she also shared rumors about me among our common friends, in society where we live behind my back ( I discovered this when I discovered her messages). She keeps blaming me or my family for even the smallest argument that we might have had in our relationship in the past and keeps maintaining the distance with me. Once the affair was discovered I was really upset and we had a huge fight over it, and it had some impact on our daughter ( who was almost 5 then), realizing that it would affect our daughter's life we mutually decided to give the relationship another try for the sake of our daughter and also our families came together to support this decision, now the problem is things aren't the same anymore, I always get a feeling of no regret from my wife and I feel embarrassed about what had happened, this has totally changed me as a person, once a man with lot of hope in life have become a person with no major aspirations in life. My daughter too is very much connected to my wife, this breaks me even more as a man/father. I tried to speak with my wife about this and her only point being I should hear what she feels and I do not understand her feelings etc... I do not understand how to deal with this, can you guide me? I want to become a better version , an example for my daughter again...I feel demotivated. Thanks again.

Ans: i am sorry to hear about the difficult situation that you are facing in your marriage. I would advise you to prioritize your own well-being and seek out support from a mental health professional to help you work through the complex emotions that you are experiencing.

It's understandable that the discovery of your wife's affair had a profound impact on you and your relationship. However, it's important to understand that your wife's decision to cheat was not your fault, and it is not appropriate for her to blame you for her actions. It's also concerning that she has shared rumors about you with others, as this can be a sign of deeper issues within the relationship.

In terms of moving forward, it may be helpful to have an honest and open conversation with your wife about your concerns and feelings. This can be a difficult conversation to have, but it's important to communicate your needs and expectations in the relationship. It may also be helpful to seek out couples therapy or marriage counseling to work through these issues and develop strategies for rebuilding trust and intimacy in the relationship.

It's important to remember that you deserve to be in a healthy and respectful relationship, and that it's never too late to work towards improving your current situation. You have the strength and resilience to overcome these challenges, and with the right support and resources, you can become a better version of yourself and a positive example for your daughter.
Asked on - Nov 09, 2023 | Answered on Nov 20, 2023
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Hello Madam, thanks for your previous reply, as an update about the situation it has gone bitter today, where she has left me , taking away my daughter as well. This is after we had a fight on small little things where due to work related stress I tried to speak to her about me needing her help to understand the situation and also the situations about her past cheating episode keeps coming back affecting me. Thus leading to constant arguments. Today she has left home , leaving me totally unpreppared and feeling hopeless about the situation in life. I am going through a lot of work pressure stress and now this has really made a situation which is getting diffficult for me to deal with. No amount of contact with her is working, I just do not know how can I resolve this matter so that I can enjoy a happy life with my wife adn daughter again. she also threatens for divorce. I miss both of them dearly. I would really appreciate if you could advice on how to sort the matter out and get some sanity back into this relationship. I fail to communicate my thoughts and feelings clearly with my wife I believe. I try my best to speak her but she never gets it. Please assist in this. Thanks
Ans: I am so very sorry to know your situation which is very challenging It's important to approach the situation with sensitivity and patience.Take some time to reflect on how you communicate with your wife. Are there ways you can improve your communication style? Focus on expressing your feelings and needs without placing blame as this is very sensitive time.Communication is a two-way street. Make sure you actively listen to your wife's concerns and feelings. Understanding her perspective is crucial in finding common ground and working towards resolution. Given the mention of divorce threats, it may be wise to seek legal advice to understand your rights and options. However, keep in mind that legal proceedings can further strain relationships, so it's best approached with caution. Remember that resolving complex relationship issues takes time and effort from both parties involved. Professional assistance can be instrumental in navigating these challenges. If your wife remains unresponsive, it might be worthwhile to focus on your own well-being and personal growth while keeping the lines of communication open for potential reconciliation.

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1604 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 12, 2020

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Relationship
Dear Anu Krishna, I'm a 39 year old man, married and having a daughter. It was an arranged marriage. We started off okay, with some good level of romance initially but plateaued later. First the emotional connect dipped, then her trust dipped and eventually physical intimacy dipped. After childbirth, our sex life hit a low and in past 5 years it has been almost a sexless marriage. I had not been a perfect partner but very much willing to fix my mistakes (I haven't cheated on her, ever). But my wife has been aloof with near zero communication. I never interfered in her independence of any form. I always trusted her but I never felt trusted/wanted/loved. She refuses to have meaningful deep conversations. We do have a lot of financial stress. We considered divorce about 5 years ago but didn't because of our daughter. Last year, I met a colleague and I connected emotionally well with her. I do consider her a good friend but my family (I stay with my parents) think I'm in an affair. This new friend also considers me her friend. Now my wife seems a little jealous of my friend, which is a good sign that there is still some hope to salvage this marriage. People have advised me both ways - to divorce and not to. I really want a happy life for myself and my daughter. I am confused - what should I do?
Ans: Dear JK, I can only imagine the stresses of the situation that you and your wife are in. But it takes two people to make a marriage.

And it would be worthwhile for both of you to understand that childbirth is a very transformative experience for entire family especially the new mother and the baby.

It is of utmost relevance here for them to have the support of the father and the family.

The emotional and physical needs of the man maybe ignored here but do know that your wife/ mother doesn’t do this as a well-thought idea but because her hormones dictate her mind and body.

But of course, if this has been something that has been going on for a while now even after a year of childbirth, it would be wise to have an open communication channel where the two of you understand each other’s needs and see how best as a couple you can fulfil them.

It is normal for a human to seek validation and attention from the external when his needs are not fulfilled at home. But the complications that can arise from that are something that you are well aware of.

You are an adult and you know what’s best for you and your family.

Having said this, if the choice is to make the marriage work, please don’t engage in finger pointing and instead think of ways to spice up your relationship.

Find someone to care for your child while you and your wife take a holiday.

If this also doesn’t work, I would suggest couples marital therapy where a professional may guide you to rebuilding your marriage.

Happy rebuilding and it’s worth working at it!

..Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1604 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Sep 12, 2022

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Relationship
HI ANUNice to contact you. I need your advice. Hope you can help me.We have been married for 22 years (arranged marriage). For the last 10 years we have some family dispute between my mother and wife.She used to hate me for the same. Moreover she didn’t have any interest in love and sex. She used to sleep in another bedroom. We live together with my son. She is housewife and completely involved in upbringing of my son. Six years back I was attracted and had affair with one of my colleagues. Once my wife come to know about our affair, she created too many problems. She became mad. She abused me verbally and physically. I stopped the affair, changed my job and location. I apologised and changed. I obeyed her. You can say I was a slave to her. In the meantime we never used to sleep together. I was afraid of her abuse so I never asked her for sex or love. She never asked me too. We live together but no love, no sex. Two years ago she told me that she has an affair with a guy from Facebook and they both had sex. That friend used her physically and financially. He had multiple affairs along with my wife. Now he forces her for the relationship. I talked to him and asked him to stay away. At the same time, I was shocked. My wife who completely hated sex and love had an affair with unknown guy. Again we had problems and arguments.If only she’d loved me neither of us would have had an affair.Problem is I can't digest this. I can't sleep at night. I was not physical with my friend. But my wife suspected in her mind and ruined our life. What to do? Shall I seek divorce? Should I consult a therapist to forget everything? Please guide me.
Ans: Dear PP,

If life were that simple enough, why would we be facing challenges at all?

You think if she had loved you, none of this would have happened. You choose to see it from your point of view which is understandable.

What if you take the effort to find out what made her lose interest in you and the marriage?

Women are wired differently from men when it comes to sex. It can be enveloped in emotions and when she is going through an emotionally challenging time (with your mother), it might have been hard for her to be physically close with you.

Did you consider ever resolving the situation between them?

Did you ever ask your wife: “What can I do to help your situation?”

Did you ever find out from her what made her distant from you?

It may sound harsh, but we are talking about much water under the bridge.

If you go on to blame her for cheating on you, when you could and you didn’t, well, it’s not a string place to start if you want to save your marriage.

Do you both want to reconcile and rebuild the marriage?

Communicate, as that’s something that has broken down between the two of you.

It takes two to build a marriage and two to break one. So, time to reflect and look ahead as to what can be done based on what the two of you choose to do.

As far as you not being able to reconcile with the thoughts of her being involved with another man, I suggest before you approach your wife to remedy the situation, kindly settle this thought else tempers are going to fly and things will go from bad to worse. So BREATHE and NOW sit calmly to reflect and act.

All the best!

..Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1604 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Sep 12, 2022

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Relationship
HI ANUNice to contact you. I need your advice. Hope you can help me.We have been married for 22 years (arranged marriage). For the last 10 years we have some family dispute between my mother and wife.She used to hate me for the same. Moreover she didn’t have any interest in love and sex. She used to sleep in another bedroom. We live together with my son. She is housewife and completely involved in upbringing of my son. Six years back I was attracted and had affair with one of my colleagues. Once my wife come to know about our affair, she created too many problems. She became mad. She abused me verbally and physically. I stopped the affair, changed my job and location. I apologised and changed. I obeyed her. You can say I was a slave to her. In the meantime we never used to sleep together. I was afraid of her abuse so I never asked her for sex or love. She never asked me too. We live together but no love, no sex. Two years ago she told me that she has an affair with a guy from Facebook and they both had sex. That friend used her physically and financially. He had multiple affairs along with my wife. Now he forces her for the relationship. I talked to him and asked him to stay away. At the same time, I was shocked. My wife who completely hated sex and love had an affair with unknown guy. Again we had problems and arguments.If only she’d loved me neither of us would have had an affair.Problem is I can't digest this. I can't sleep at night. I was not physical with my friend. But my wife suspected in her mind and ruined our life. What to do? Shall I seek divorce? Should I consult a therapist to forget everything? Please guide me.
Ans: Dear PP,

If life were that simple enough, why would we be facing challenges at all?

You think if she had loved you, none of this would have happened. You choose to see it from your point of view which is understandable.

What if you take the effort to find out what made her lose interest in you and the marriage?

Women are wired differently from men when it comes to sex. It can be enveloped in emotions and when she is going through an emotionally challenging time (with your mother), it might have been hard for her to be physically close with you.

Did you consider ever resolving the situation between them?

Did you ever ask your wife: “What can I do to help your situation?”

Did you ever find out from her what made her distant from you?

It may sound harsh, but we are talking about much water under the bridge.

If you go on to blame her for cheating on you, when you could and you didn’t, well, it’s not a string place to start if you want to save your marriage.

Do you both want to reconcile and rebuild the marriage?

Communicate, as that’s something that has broken down between the two of you.

It takes two to build a marriage and two to break one. So, time to reflect and look ahead as to what can be done based on what the two of you choose to do.

As far as you not being able to reconcile with the thoughts of her being involved with another man, I suggest before you approach your wife to remedy the situation, kindly settle this thought else tempers are going to fly and things will go from bad to worse. So BREATHE and NOW sit calmly to reflect and act.

All the best!

..Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1604 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Aug 26, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 22, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
Hi Anu, I am a guy 45, married and with 2 lovely children. My wife and I have great relationship from the time of love marriage. I love her a lot and as a family all is great financially, emotionally. It does seem to be like a perfect family anyone can ask for. During dating she was she was flirting with others but after all our love and commitment we moved ahead. She has this nature of seeking attention from others and I was ok as long as it was harmless. After our first child, I know it must be difficult for her as a new mother etc but I caught her with her colleague, they were having affair for 1.5 years. she regretted her decision and I forgive her. I gave her more attention and we continued, she shows all the love and affection and I know in my heart she loved me a lot as I do the same. All was good, we had a second child and the pregnancy and post pregnancy was happy. She has been very happy and giving her all to the family. Our relationship was very good from every angle. yet again she had a one night stand and also another affair. This time i was heard broken. She is independent, she earns well and better than me of which I am proud of. If she is unhappy with the relationship and marriage, i am happy if she is wants to move on for her good. But she repented again and says he cannot live without me and that she only loves me. If there is so much love I am unable to understand why she is looking elsewhere. I have asked her to make me understand but she has no answer. I have forgiven her as my love for her is a lot and I know she does love me too and we continue our marriage... but I am unable to figure out this nature and for her and myself I want to understand what can be done. I am lost.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I can see that it is very unsettling for you. It might have been a huge deal to know that your wife has been vying for attention outside of marriage and also indulging in the physical angle as well.
It's possible that she is getting used to your being okay with the entire thing and just adapting to it that there has been no thought on how she can change the way that she is. Since you have forgiven her, there is nothing that needs to change in her...that's the message that you are implying to her.

She possibly is just exploring and trying new things for herself, she is looking for validation and attention outside...the reasons could be many...wandering is only an indication of something that we are not happy with within ourselves or in our lives...If you want your situation to change, I would strongly recommend Couples Therapy to unearth what exactly is happening. It might give both of you some perspective and since there's love still within the marriage, things might actually fall in place quickly.

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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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8503 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 24, 2025

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Hello sir, I have total mutual funds of around 40 lacs. Active Sips are Nippon India Small Cap - 8K/M, Kotak Mid Cap Fund - 6k/M, Canara Robecco Bluechip fund - 5k/M and ICICI Prudential nifty 250 small cap index fund - 6k/M. Also I have ICICI Prudential Value Discovery fund - which has grown from 1.7 to 4.2 lacs and DSP ELSS Tax Saver fund grown from 3.4 to 7.2 lacs. I want to redeem the amounts from ICICI Prudential Value Discovery fund and DSP ELSS tax saver fund and invest somewhere else as they have given return more than 150%. I am looking for duration of next 5 years and corpus amount of 1 cr. However my banker from HDFC securities are pushing me to invest in HDFC Life click to invest ULIP's which comes with lock in period. And I don't want a product with lock in period as I already have PPF and LIC as well. Could you please suggest if I should hold these funds or any change is required?
Ans: Your disciplined approach to investing, especially in mutual funds, is commendable. With a current corpus of Rs. 40 lakhs and a goal to reach Rs. 1 crore in the next 5 years, it's crucial to evaluate your existing investments and potential changes carefully. Let's delve into a comprehensive analysis to guide your financial journey.

1. Evaluating Your Current Portfolio
a. ICICI Prudential Value Discovery Fund

This fund has shown significant growth, moving from Rs. 1.7 lakhs to Rs. 4.2 lakhs.

It primarily invests in large-cap stocks, offering stability and consistent returns

Given its performance, it aligns well with long-term investment goals.

b. DSP ELSS Tax Saver Fund

This fund has also performed admirably, growing from Rs. 3.4 lakhs to Rs. 7.2 lakhs.

As an ELSS, it offers tax benefits under Section 80C but comes with a 3-year lock-in period.

Its consistent performance makes it a valuable component of your portfolio.

c. Active SIPs

Your ongoing SIPs in small-cap, mid-cap, and blue-chip funds provide a diversified exposure to the equity market.

This diversification is beneficial for balancing risk and returns.

2. Assessing the Proposal for HDFC Life Click 2 Invest ULIP
ULIPs combine insurance and investment, often leading to higher charges and complexities.

HDFC Life Click 2 Invest ULIP has a mandatory lock-in period of 5 years, restricting liquidity.

Given your existing commitments to PPF and LIC, adding another locked-in product may not be ideal.

ULIPs often have higher costs compared to mutual funds, which can erode returns.

3. Recommendations for Portfolio Adjustment
a. Retain High-Performing Funds

Both ICICI Prudential Value Discovery Fund and DSP ELSS Tax Saver Fund have demonstrated strong performance.

Consider retaining these funds to continue benefiting from their growth potential.

b. Rebalance Portfolio for Goal Alignment

Evaluate the proportion of investments across different fund categories.

Ensure that your portfolio aligns with your risk tolerance and the 5-year investment horizon.

c. Avoid Additional Lock-In Products

Given your preference for liquidity and existing locked-in investments, refrain from adding products like ULIPs.

Focus on investments that offer flexibility and align with your financial goals.

4. Tax Considerations
Long-term capital gains (LTCG) on equity mutual funds above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Plan redemptions strategically to minimize tax liabilities.

Consider spreading out redemptions over multiple financial years if necessary.

5. Monitoring and Review
Regularly review your portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your financial objectives.

Stay informed about market trends and fund performance.

Consult with a Certified Financial Planner periodically for personalized advice.

Finally
Your current investment strategy has yielded impressive results. By maintaining a diversified portfolio, avoiding high-cost products with lock-in periods, and staying informed, you are well-positioned to achieve your goal of accumulating Rs. 1 crore in the next 5 years. Continue to monitor your investments and make informed decisions to ensure continued financial growth.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8503 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 24, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 24, 2025
Money
Dear Sir, I am 33 years old and have an 8-month-old child. I am planning to retire at the age of 45. My current salary is 1.2 lakh per month, and I have no savings so far. Could you please suggest a financial plan for me?
Ans: You are 33 years old, have an 8-month-old child, and plan to retire at 45. You are earning Rs. 1.2 lakh per month and currently have no savings. Your goal is bold and needs a clear and disciplined strategy. Let’s build a financial plan that works for you.

As a Certified Financial Planner, I will break it down into clear sections. This approach gives you 360-degree clarity.

Understand and Acknowledge Current Reality

You have 12 years to build your retirement corpus.

With zero savings now, early retirement at 45 needs focused execution.

Having a young child increases responsibility and expense going forward.

Right now, income is your only strength. Use it wisely and strategically.

Build a Solid Budgeting Structure

Start by tracking every rupee spent each month.

List all fixed expenses like rent, EMIs, fees, groceries, and transport.

Identify unnecessary spends like subscriptions, eating out, and gadgets.

Create a monthly budget with at least 35% for savings and investments.

Keep lifestyle inflation under check to maintain a healthy saving rate.

Create an Emergency Fund First

Emergency fund is the first step before investing.

Save at least 6 months of expenses in a separate liquid account.

Do not invest this money in risky options like shares or mutual funds.

Keep this fund in a mix of savings account and short-term liquid instruments.

Use it only for real emergencies like medical, job loss, or accidents.

Start Insurance Protection Immediately

You must protect your family from financial shocks.

You need term insurance of at least 15 times your yearly income.

Since you are the only earner, take Rs. 1.5 crore to Rs. 2 crore coverage.

Keep it separate from investment. Only pure term plans are required.

Take health insurance for yourself, spouse and child immediately.

Save for Retirement Before Other Goals

Retirement is your first priority as you have only 12 years left.

Save minimum 40% of your monthly income towards retirement corpus.

As your income grows, increase savings too without increasing expenses.

SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) in mutual funds is a powerful tool.

Begin SIP with even Rs. 15,000 per month and increase every 6 months.

Choose the Right Mutual Fund Strategy

Do not go for index funds. They are passive and follow the market blindly.

Index funds lack flexibility in falling markets and offer limited downside protection.

Prefer actively managed mutual funds. They can beat inflation better.

Invest in mutual funds through a Certified Financial Planner or MFD.

Do not choose direct mutual funds. You miss personalised guidance.

Children’s Education Planning is Secondary Now

Your child’s education will need funding in 15–18 years.

Right now, retirement is urgent. Prioritise it over child education.

Later, when retirement plan is on track, start SIPs for education.

Use goal-based investing. Tag your SIPs for each specific goal.

Avoid Any ULIP, Traditional or Combo Policies

Do not mix insurance and investments.

ULIPs, endowments and money-back plans give poor returns.

If someone sells such policy, ask if it beats inflation after tax and costs.

Avoid plans with lock-ins, poor liquidity and complex bonus structures.

Don’t Rely on Real Estate for Retirement

Real estate needs huge money, offers poor liquidity.

Selling property quickly is tough when you need urgent cash.

Rental yield is low and maintenance costs are high.

For retirement income, mutual fund SWP works better than real estate rent.

Use Step-Up SIP for Growing Contributions

Increase your SIP amount every year with income growth.

Even a 10% rise annually makes a big difference in final corpus.

This creates wealth without impacting current lifestyle too much.

Review Your Plan Every Year

Life situations and income levels change each year.

Set a fixed date every year to review your goals and investments.

Use this review to make changes if needed.

A Certified Financial Planner will guide you in reviewing goals and SIPs.

Plan Tax Smartly

Tax saving is important but should not be the goal of investment.

Don’t choose PPF or endowment just for tax benefit.

Use ELSS mutual funds. They give tax benefits and also create wealth.

Plan taxes using smart instruments. Avoid investing only to save tax.

Control Lifestyle Inflation

As salary grows, we spend more on lifestyle.

This kills the chance to save more. Stop lifestyle creep.

Keep basic comforts but avoid social comparison spending.

Budget extra income into investment before lifestyle upgrades.

Focus on One Goal at a Time

Don’t try to save for too many goals together.

You have 12 years. Use first 6–8 years only for retirement.

After building base corpus, plan for other goals like house or education.

Have a Clear Exit Strategy

Your retirement corpus should give income after age 45.

Don’t keep money idle. Use a withdrawal plan like SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan).

Use mix of debt and equity funds to protect principal and give income.

Plan it with professional help to reduce tax and risk.

Mind Your Taxes When You Withdraw

After retirement, mutual fund withdrawals will be taxed.

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

STCG on equity taxed at 20%.

Debt mutual fund gains taxed as per income slab.

Plan withdrawal smartly to reduce tax burden post-retirement.

Avoid Personal Loans and EMIs

Stay away from loans for wants. Take loans only for needs.

EMIs reduce your saving ability and delay financial freedom.

If needed, build a sinking fund for upcoming expenses.

Don’t use credit cards or loans for vacation, shopping, or gadgets.

Build Financial Discipline Through Automation

Automate SIPs and savings through ECS.

Treat SIP like any other bill or EMI. Never skip it.

Auto transfers remove the temptation to spend first.

Keep a separate account only for investments.

Use Joint Planning with Spouse

If spouse earns, make her part of your plan.

Plan joint goals like child’s education and retirement.

Split SIPs and insurance between both for better tax benefits.

Teamwork in money management improves success chances.

Prepare a Will After Building Assets

As assets grow, protect your family with proper nomination and will.

Write a simple will after acquiring investment assets.

This avoids confusion and disputes among legal heirs.

A will ensures your money reaches the right people without delay.

Build Financial Literacy Bit by Bit

Read 1–2 good articles on personal finance every week.

Watch reliable financial channels only. Avoid noise from social media.

Don’t fall for hot tips, crypto hype or overnight wealth promises.

Basic financial knowledge helps you ask right questions to planners.

Finally

You are still young and time is with you.

Starting now with clarity and commitment is key.

You don’t need big amounts. You need regularity and discipline.

Stick to the plan. Track it. Adjust when needed.

Partner with a Certified Financial Planner to create a custom plan.

You can reach your retirement goal if you act today.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8503 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 24, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 24, 2025
Money
Hi Sir, I am 35 years old with monthly salary of 1.4L.I have two kids one with 3years and other with 2years. I have a personal loan of 55k.It will complete by next year. I have LIC of 10000 per month for 15years.I have term insurance for 1Cr. I paid 3years need to pay 7 more years.And I am the sole bread winner with my father motyamd sister. This year my sister marriage is there.I don't have savings with me in addition I am unable to save one rupee as other financial matters also I need to take care. I have 13 cents of land with 1cent costs 3L rupees.We are giving 4cents for dowry.For marriage related cost I want to take again personal loan.can you please suggest on this?
Ans: You are doing your best in a tough position. Managing two kids, supporting family, and handling loans with no savings is not easy.

Your sense of responsibility is clear and commendable. Let us now explore your situation with care and clarity.

Current Income and Expense Structure
Monthly salary of Rs. 1.4 lakh is your only income.

Rs. 55,000 EMI towards personal loan takes a large share.

LIC premium of Rs. 10,000 adds pressure on your budget.

Term insurance is good and must be continued.

Daily household expenses, family needs, and kid's expenses further strain your income.

Sister’s marriage adds a large one-time financial need.

Land worth Rs. 39 lakhs (13 cents × Rs. 3 lakh) is a strong asset.

Immediate Family Responsibilities
You are the only earning member. This adds emotional and financial load.

You are managing your father, mother, sister, and two small children.

Your sister’s marriage is important. But your long-term security matters too.

You are planning to give 4 cents of land as dowry. This is a thoughtful move. But this also reduces your total property holding to 9 cents.

Loan Planning for Sister’s Marriage
Taking a new personal loan for marriage can be risky.

You already pay Rs. 55,000 as EMI. Adding more will reduce breathing space.

Your total EMI burden could cross 65-70% of your salary. That is unsafe.

Consider using part land sale if possible for marriage costs.

Instead of gifting land as dowry, you can offer money from land sale.

Selling 4 cents can give you Rs. 12 lakh. Use only what is needed now.

Avoid emotional overspending. Keep marriage costs within this land value.

LIC Policy Assessment
You pay Rs. 10,000 monthly. That is Rs. 1.2 lakh a year.

LIC plans offer low returns, mostly below inflation.

If it is a traditional endowment or money-back plan, returns are poor.

You already have term insurance. That gives full coverage at low cost.

Surrendering the LIC and redirecting the premium to mutual funds can help.

You can evaluate this with a Certified Financial Planner.

Steps to Create Financial Stability
1. Postpone Taking New Loan

Taking a new personal loan is not a good idea now.

First loan will end next year. That will free Rs. 55,000 monthly.

Use that free amount next year to save and plan for future needs.

Till then, try to manage marriage costs through land or other means.

2. Use Land Asset Wisely

You own 13 cents of land. Value is Rs. 39 lakh.

Instead of gifting land, sell a portion.

Keep marriage budget within 4 cents sale proceeds (Rs. 12 lakh).

Don’t sell full land now. Retain some for future children’s needs.

3. Secure Emergency Fund First

You don’t have any savings now. That is risky.

After your current loan ends, build 3 to 6 months expense buffer.

Start with a small goal like Rs. 1 lakh in a savings account.

This protects you from future financial shocks.

4. Start Mutual Fund Investments

After loan closure, start monthly SIP in mutual funds.

Begin with Rs. 5,000 monthly, and increase slowly.

Mutual funds give better long-term returns than LIC or FDs.

Use regular mutual funds through a Certified Financial Planner.

Regular funds have advisory support. Direct funds lack personal guidance.

Professional advice helps you avoid wrong funds and wrong timing.

5. Avoid Multiple Insurance Products

Don’t buy new insurance policies with investment link.

You already have term insurance. That is enough.

Avoid ULIPs and endowment plans. They mix insurance and investment poorly.

6. Provide for Children’s Future

Your kids are young. Start small SIPs for education goal.

Even Rs. 2,000 per month per child is good in the beginning.

Long term compounding will help with education costs after 15 years.

Don’t depend on real estate for children’s education.

Mutual fund-based education plans offer better flexibility and liquidity.

7. Manage Family Expectations

Speak with your family about your limitations.

Make it clear you are doing your best.

Share basic family budget with them if possible.

Setting realistic expectations avoids future stress.

8. Health Insurance is a Must

Check if your family has adequate health insurance.

Hospital bills can wipe out savings and force loans.

If you don’t have a family floater, consider it next year after loan ends.

Premium of Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 20,000 for Rs. 5 lakh coverage is manageable.

9. Use Next Year’s Cash Flow Smartly

Once your personal loan ends, you get Rs. 55,000 relief monthly.

Use Rs. 10,000 for SIPs, Rs. 5,000 for kids’ education fund.

Use Rs. 5,000 for health insurance premium.

Balance Rs. 35,000 can go towards emergency fund or house expenses.

This improves savings without changing current income.

10. Plan for Future Goals Slowly

Don’t try to do everything in one year.

Break goals into yearly steps.

First build emergency fund, then start investments.

Then prepare for children’s higher education and your retirement.

All goals need not start at once. Focus one by one.

11. Avoid High-Interest Debt

Personal loans have high interest. Avoid unless extremely necessary.

Use gold loan or land-backed loan only if cost is very low.

Else, restrict marriage budget within assets like land.

Credit card usage should be avoided for big expenses.

12. Review Your Financial Documents

Keep your term insurance nominee updated.

Ensure you have a basic will or family agreement for land.

Write down your monthly expenses and income.

This will help identify small savings areas.

Final Insights
You are under financial stress. But you are managing with strength.

Don’t rush to take new loans for emotional reasons.

Use land asset for immediate marriage needs wisely.

Once the current loan ends, build emergency fund.

Begin long-term SIPs in mutual funds.

Surrender LIC if it is non-performing and reinvest smartly.

Get help from a Certified Financial Planner to create a step-by-step plan.

Your future can be stronger with small consistent actions.

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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