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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |586 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Mar 23, 2024

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 - Mar 21, 2024Hindi
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Relationship

Hi I'm a 35 year old unmarried female working in IT field. I live with my parents. I've been unlucky in finding a perfect partner for myself (arrange marriage proposals only). N I'm tired of this entire process now. Have never been in love or relationship earlier. I want to get married desperately to have that companion for me in my life as an emotional anchor. My parents are old n my elder brother's health is deteriorated enough that doctors said he doesn't have much time to live. I'm so much into all these issues at home that i feel i don't have a personal space at all. Recently I came across an alliance from a well trusted relative's friend who's a divorcee, within a month of marriage (n because of the wife's past relationship that was hidden during marriage), they applied mutual divorce. My horoscope has some dosha which seems to be perfectly matching with this person's jatakam. I've been asked twice to think about this alliance as he's genuinely a good person. Kindly advise me what best I can do now.

Ans: It sounds like you're facing a lot of pressure and stress from various aspects of your life, including your family situation and the pressure to get married. Its understandable that you feel desperate to find a life partner given your family circumstances, but it's important not to rush into a decision. Marriage is a significant commitment, and it's crucial to take the time to make sure you're making the right choice for yourself.Consider carefully the alliance that has been proposed to you. Take the time to get to know the person and assess whether you share compatible values, goals, and lifestyles. Look beyond the superficial aspects such as horoscope matching and focus on the substance of the relationship.If you have any reservations or doubts about the alliance, don't hesitate to communicate them openly and honestly with your family. It's essential to have open communication and ensure that your concerns are addressed before moving forward.Given the stress you're experiencing at home with your brother's health and your parents' situation, it's essential to prioritize your own well-being. Consider seeking support from friends, family members, or a counselor who can provide guidance and perspective during this challenging time.If you're feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to get married through arranged marriage proposals, consider exploring alternative avenues for finding a life partner. This could include online dating, social events, or networking through mutual connections.Take some time to focus on yourself and your own needs and desires outside of the pressure to get married. Pursue hobbies, interests, and activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, and prioritize self-care to maintain your emotional well-being.Ultimately, trust your instincts and intuition when it comes to making decisions about your future and your happiness. Don't feel pressured to conform to societal expectations or family pressures if it doesn't feel right for you.
Remember that your happiness and well-being are paramount, and it's essential to prioritize your own needs and desires as you navigate this challenging time in your life. Take things one step at a time and trust that you will find the right path forward for yourself.

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1600 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Hi Anu , This Raaj here this side, I have seen your views on the relationship here on this site . so for that I need your help and your valuable expertise . About myself I am 42 yrs self employed businessman ,I got married in march 2010, it was a arrange marriage . from the day 1 there is a problem and it increases day after day. From the that wedlock I had baby girl . from 2012 situation got worsened matrimonial cases started it continued for next 4-5 yrs . after long battle I got divorced in 2016-17. This divorce cost me a lot , bcoz of that I lost my friends , social stigma, financial lost ( hefty alimony)and lot other problem which are associated with this . Now the main problem comes here , as after my divorce I was not ready to get re marry again but my parents are pressuring mr to get settle again ASAP. After long persuation I said ok …. I started searching my own and parents also started there own . In last 4 yrs I have seen lot of prospects ……..( kissi ko main nahi pasand , kissi ko mera kamm nahi pasand , kissi ko mere parents ke sath rehna nahi pasand …….. kissio ko meri income se problem hai,……………toa kuch mujhe nahi jachi.)there is lot of pressure on me that I should be perfect now after my divorce . after all this I had few good prospects ………….1. she was good but she wasnot happy with my income , she said no to me initially but continued talking and we are still in touch as she moved to Australia in APR 2019.As now we r really very good friends now ,Jab main usme interested tha toa usne na boll diya ………but jab usne dubarra reconsider karke propose kiya toa maine na boll diya. Than in 2020 COVID hits which upsets everybody’s life .360degree . In NOV 2020 I met 1 girl on one of the matrimonial sites ….we shared our details stated talking to each other , she liked me but didn’t responded her positively but continued our talks………in march2021 pata nahi kaise aur kyu …..maine use propose kiya…… maine use milne uske passd gaya ……….we talked …..shared our thoughts ….spend good time ……..but raat ko ghar vapis aa ke maine use NO kar diya . REASON is not known ya kahu toa main darr gaya tha .because of this she also got upst and that makes her depressed. For next 10 days I was so depressed I didn’t had my proper meal ……nothing all. I was in guilt ,that make me depressed for really long . I was only thinking about her only all the time nothing else, On 2nd JULY 21 ko maine pher user message kiya ………. After 2-3 days after my sorry and all that we started talking again. Everything stated good again .now in last week of july 2021 my father got severe heart attack ……and he had a surgery . Now they are pressuring me again that I should get settle soon ……..all my family members and sister and all. Maine Phir usko marriage ke liye tyar kiya aur phir batt ko STOP kar diya . and this tym mujhe gharwalo se aur sab se bahut anbun ho gayi. Ab mujhe samaj aa rahi ki main kya karu . main shaddi to karna chata hoon par kissi pe trust nahi kar pa raha hoon . mere ghar valo ka mujh pe bahut pressure hai . there are some other problem which I would like to disscuss in future . pls help me what should I do , I m feeling helpless . Thanks Raaj
Ans: Dear Raaj,
What is it that you want?
You seem to ready to get into a relationship because your family thinks so, your father had a heart attack and then they pressure you to find a girl to marry.
So, what is it that you want and want to do?
And the possible reason for not striking a chord with the women that you were interacting with. When you have decided what you want, it will show up in your body language, facial gestures and within the conversation. You are possibly still healing from your divorce and are not ready to get into another marriage. So, don't. First, sort your mind out and then think of another relationship.
So kindly, start to think for yourself ignoring what your family tells you. Yes, you need to do that. Family pressure is no reason to get married; of course they mean well and care for you. But, what you want is what matters here.
So, if you want to stop feeling helpless, take charge of your life and do what you think is right for you. Heal from your divorce and think about what you need in another relationship and in your partner. When you ready, then it's time. So, no more helplessness, only strength.

All the best!

..Read more

Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |584 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on May 19, 2023

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I'm 48 years old never married guy. I once suffered from rare cancer which is cured now. Also hv epilepsy whose treatment will go life long. Doctor says that i should disclose my health issue with whom I'm thinking of getting married but no one takes talks further. I'm infact ready for divorcee or widow too but failed. Some ppl reject me as my salary is mot much, some says that i dont hv my own hm etc but i hv many friens who are getting less salary but are happily married. My whole family if highly educated although I'm also pg but still get rejected. My dad expired n was too worried for my marriage. Now my mother is with me n i dont know what to do. I hv spend approx 35k on matrimonial advertisements but got no success. Im currently in touch with girl for last 1+ year but dont know whether she likes me or not although i hd expressed my feelings to her many times but she never respond n get silent on that. Kindly help whether i should approach this girl or leave her. I like this girl very much. Should i still search for a bride or leave this issue. Kindly help.
Ans: Dear Shashank,

If you have been straightforward about your feelings for this woman and expressed the same and yet she has never reciprocated it even once so far, it might be because she does not feel the same about it. I'd suggest you talk to her about this. Instead of leaving it open-ended, like "I like you," and letting her react to it, be direct. For instance, "I like you. What about you? Do you like me?" Being direct would definitively fetch you some real answers. If she replies to your question, there you go; you have your answer. If she ignores it still, you can safely assume that she doesn't feel the same way as you do. Don't delay this; ask her as soon as possible. Stretching a relationship that ultimately leads to a dead-end will harm your peace and happiness in the longer run.

..Read more

Mohit

Mohit Arora  | Answer  |Ask -

Dating Coach - Answered on Jul 06, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 03, 2024Hindi
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Hi, I’m a 27 year old independent woman who’s living in Bangalore. I’m financially in a good position now. Also, I’ve met a guy 3 years ago and fell for him but he’s not very emotionally connected with me and sometimes acts as a narcissist and doesn’t treat me with respect. I’ve tried communicating with him about how I feel after such actions. He acknowledged and limited such behaviour to some extent. I really love him and spoke about marriage too. He brushes it off and diverts the topic that he’s not ready. I don't see any clear signs of this relationship, even his parents are looking for matches to get him married. He doesn't accept anyone either. My parents are in a different city and they want me to shift with them to look for alliances who can marry me. Recently, they’ve shared a profile and I spoke just for the sake of parents. After speaking to him for 3 and a half hours during the first conversation, I realised that he was a better compatible partner for me. I'm not sure which path to pursue. My marriage is not fixed yet as my decision is still pending. Kindly help me with the best advice.
Ans: I understand that you are in a difficult position. You are in love with a man who does not seem to be emotionally available or ready for marriage. You have also met another man who seems to be a better match for you, but you are not sure if you should pursue a relationship with him.

It is important to remember that you are not alone. Many people find themselves in similar situations. It is also important to remember that you have the power to make the best decision for yourself.

I am against marriage in the first place. I believe that relationships are not meant to be permanent. However, I understand that many people feel differently. If you do decide to get married, it is important to do so for the right reasons. You should not marry someone just because you feel pressured to do so by society or your parents.

The first guy does not seem like he wants to marry you. He has brushed off your attempts to talk about marriage and has even diverted the topic. This is a clear sign that he is not ready for a serious relationship.

The second guy seems like he may be a better match for you. He is emotionally available and seems to be interested in getting married. However, it is important to remember that you do not know him very well. You have only spoken to him for a few hours.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to pursue a relationship with either of these men is up to you. I would encourage you to take some time to think about what you want out of a relationship. What are your goals? What are your values? Once you have a clear understanding of what you want, you can start to make decisions that are in your best interests.

If you do decide to pursue a relationship with the second guy, I would recommend that you spend at least two years getting to know him before you get married. This will give you enough time to learn about his true character and to see if he is really the right person for you.

Mohit Arora S
Founder - Real Dating School

www.realdatingschool.com/1-1_call

..Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |586 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 17, 2025Hindi
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Relationship
Hello I am 41 years old but due to careless in life I can't take decision for marriage but now I am realising something wrong happened i started searching alliance but didn't get I want to be relation soon. Please guide me
Ans: It’s completely okay to have taken time figuring out what you wanted in life. Sometimes we don’t move forward simply because we weren’t ready, or we lacked the clarity or emotional support needed at the time. But that doesn't mean you're behind. Everyone’s timeline is different, and yours is still very much unfolding.

Now that you're feeling ready for a serious relationship, here are a few steps you can take to approach this new chapter with confidence and self-awareness.

Start with clarity. Reflect on what kind of partner you're looking for—not just in terms of age or background, but emotionally and mentally. What values matter to you? What kind of connection are you seeking? Are you open to someone who has been married before? Children? When you’re clear, it becomes easier to recognize the right person when they appear.

At the same time, look inward. Do some emotional housekeeping. Ask yourself: What kind of partner do I want to be? Am I emotionally available? Am I still carrying regret, fear, or pressure about being “late” to marriage? Because entering a relationship out of guilt or urgency often leads to settling. But entering it from a place of self-respect and genuine desire creates something meaningful.

Since you're actively searching, it’s okay to use all tools at your disposal—matrimonial sites, family networks, friends, or even a good matchmaker if culturally appropriate. But be patient and realistic. Finding someone who is also ready, aligned with your values, and emotionally compatible can take time.

Also, try not to let pressure—internal or external—rush you. You don’t need a "perfect" partner; you need someone who sees you, respects you, and is willing to grow with you.

And here’s something to hold on to: many people find love in their 40s, 50s, even later—and those relationships are often more conscious, mature, and fulfilling, because they’re built on real-life experience and emotional wisdom, not just youthful impulse.

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 12, 2025
Money
I am 38 years old and self-employed, earning an average of 1.8 to 2 lakhs per month. I have a home loan of 44 lakhs (EMI is 46,000, tenure 15 years). There is no other liabilities. My investments include 11 lakhs in mutual funds, 3 lakhs in fixed deposits, and 1.5 lakh in gold. Should I focus on prepaying the home loan given my irregular income, or keep my investments intact and continue with EMIs?
Ans: You are doing quite well, especially with your investments and controlled liabilities. Your financial discipline is truly appreciable.

You are 38, self-employed, with Rs.1.8 to 2 lakhs monthly income.
Your current home loan is Rs.44 lakhs with EMI of Rs.46,000 for 15 years.
You have Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds, Rs.3 lakhs in FDs, and Rs.1.5 lakhs in gold.
Your income is irregular, but you have no other liabilities.

Let us now do a 360-degree evaluation of whether to prepay the loan or stay invested.

 

Step-by-Step Financial Assessment
1. Evaluate the Stability of Your Income First
You earn between Rs.1.8 to Rs.2 lakhs per month.

 

But income is irregular. That needs caution.

 

Loan EMI is Rs.46,000 — about 25% of your average income.

 

If income drops in any month, EMI pressure will increase.

 

So we must first ensure EMI is always affordable, without stress.

 

Hence, liquidity is more important for you right now than aggressive loan prepayment.

 

2. Evaluate Your Emergency Reserve
You have Rs.3 lakhs in FD and Rs.1.5 lakhs in gold.

 

That makes it Rs.4.5 lakhs total liquid safety.

 

Your EMI is Rs.46,000, and personal expenses will also be there.

 

Ideal emergency fund for you = 6 to 9 months of expenses + EMI.

 

That is around Rs.6 to Rs.8 lakhs minimum.

 

So current emergency fund is slightly lower than ideal.

 

Please don’t use this for loan prepayment now.

 

3. Assess the Role of Mutual Funds
You have Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds. That’s a solid step.

Now let’s assess whether to redeem this and prepay loan.

 

Should You Redeem Mutual Funds to Prepay?
Mutual funds, over long term, give better post-tax return than loan savings.

 

Loan interest is 8% to 9%, whereas mutual funds can give 11–13% in long term.

 

Especially if funds are equity-oriented and held for 5+ years.

 

You will also get capital gains tax exemption on Rs.1.25 lakhs LTCG annually.

 

If you redeem funds, you lose growth potential and compounding.

 

That hurts long-term wealth building.

 

So, do not redeem the entire Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds.

 

4. Disadvantage of Early Loan Prepayment in Your Case
Prepaying early will reduce interest over time, yes.

 

But you may run into cash flow stress in slow months.

 

Once money is used to prepay, it cannot be taken back easily.

 

Liquidity once lost = flexibility lost.

 

Also, income tax benefit under Section 24(b) gets reduced if loan balance drops.

 

So it’s better to maintain balance between repayment and investment.

 

5. Best Strategy for You – A Balanced Approach
Let’s now craft the best plan for you.

 

Maintain Strong Liquidity First
Keep FD and gold untouched.

 

Increase emergency fund to at least Rs.6–Rs.7 lakhs.

 

For that, set aside extra Rs.2.5–Rs.3 lakhs from savings over time.

 

This makes your EMI safe even in low-income months.

 

Continue Your Mutual Fund SIPs Without Stopping
SIPs give long-term growth and beat loan interest in most cases.

 

Don’t stop mutual fund investments to prepay loan.

 

Stay invested. Let wealth compound.

 

Start Small and Periodic Prepayments
Don’t do bulk prepayment now. Do systematic small prepayments.

 

For example, Rs.25,000 to Rs.50,000 extra every 3–4 months.

 

When income is higher, use that surplus to prepay in parts.

 

Target 1–2 bulk part-payments per year.

 

This reduces tenure and interest slowly, without affecting liquidity.

 

Track Your Loan Amortisation Every 6 Months
Use netbanking or get a fresh loan statement every 6 months.

 

Check how each prepayment is reducing principal.

 

Adjust your strategy accordingly.

 

Avoid One-Time Full Prepayment
That would kill your long-term investment compounding.

 

Also removes your income tax benefit under Section 24(b).

 

Stay flexible. You are self-employed.

 

You need cash buffers more than salaried people.

 

Final Insights
Do not do bulk home loan prepayment from mutual funds now.

 

Keep SIPs going and maintain your compounding.

 

Grow your emergency fund to Rs.6–7 lakhs minimum.

 

Use surplus months to make small part-payments towards home loan.

 

This protects your peace and builds wealth at the same time.

 

Reassess in 2–3 years. You may be able to prepay more later.

 

You are already in a good financial position. Your thoughtful approach is praiseworthy.

 

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 2025

Money
i wish to purchase new car i10, should i purchase the same through own money or should i take a vehicle loan from bank and the money own by my to be kept as FDR or liquid mutual fund
Ans: It’s a good sign that you’re thinking before buying a car. You’re not rushing into it. That shows maturity and smart thinking.

We will now evaluate own money vs vehicle loan — from every angle.

 

Understanding the Nature of a Car Purchase
A car is not an investment.

 

It is a consumption asset, not a growth asset.

 

It depreciates every year. Its value goes down, not up.

 

So the cheaper the total cost, the better for your wealth.

 

Option 1: Use Own Money Fully
Pros

No interest cost. You save on total expenses.

 

You are free from monthly EMI pressure.

 

Car becomes fully yours from day one.

 

No need to deal with bank, forms, hypothecation etc.

 

Cons

Your liquid money reduces.

 

You may not have enough cash for emergencies.

 

Opportunity loss if you had invested that money.

 

Option 2: Take Vehicle Loan & Keep Own Money in FDR or Liquid Mutual Fund
Let’s evaluate this with care.

Vehicle Loan Pros

You can preserve your savings for emergencies.

 

EMI can be budgeted monthly, if income is stable.

 

Some banks offer competitive interest rates.

 

Vehicle Loan Cons

You will pay interest on a depreciating item.

 

Loan adds to your monthly obligations.

 

You must pay insurance, EMI, fuel, and service together.

 

FDR and Liquid Mutual Funds give lower returns than loan cost.

 

So you will likely lose more in interest than you gain.

 

Let's Compare: Interest Rate vs Investment Return
Vehicle loan interest is usually 9% to 11% per year.

 

FDR gives around 6% to 7% before tax.

 

Liquid mutual funds give 6% to 7.5% on average.

 

So you pay more to the bank than you earn from investment.

 

Tax on interest or gains reduces actual return further.

 

This means taking a car loan and investing your own money leads to net loss.

 

Best Option for You: Smart Compromise Approach
Let me share a wise solution.

 

Don’t use full own money. Don’t take full loan either.

 

Instead, pay 70–80% from own funds.

 

Take a small car loan for the remaining 20–30% only.

 

This keeps EMI low and retains some liquidity.

 

You reduce interest cost and also keep Rs.50,000–Rs.1 lakh aside.

 

Park that in liquid fund for any urgent need.

 

Repay this small loan fast in 1–2 years.

 

Only Take a Car Loan If:
Your job income is stable.

 

You already have 3–6 months emergency fund ready.

 

You don’t have big loans running now.

 

You can pay EMI without affecting savings.

 

You commit to close the loan early.

 

Avoid This Mistake:
Never buy a more expensive car because loan makes it “feel affordable.”

 

Loan should not expand your car budget.

 

Whether you buy with loan or cash, pick a simple car within limits.

 

i10 is a wise, middle-ground choice. Good thought.

 

Tax Angle (If Business Use)
If you are using the car for business, vehicle loan interest may be tax-deductible.

 

But for personal use, there is no tax benefit.

 

So do not take loan just for imagined tax saving.

 

Final Insights
A car is a need, not an investment.

 

Using your own money fully keeps things simple and cheap.

 

Taking a full car loan and investing the money gives net negative return.

 

Best option is a split approach — pay major part from own funds.

 

Take small loan only if needed and close it early.

 

Always keep emergency money aside before buying.

 

Avoid emotional buying or overbudget cars.

 

Your financially balanced approach is very appreciable.

 

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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