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Love Guru

Love Guru   | Answer  |Ask -

Relationships Expert - Answered on Oct 24, 2024

Love Guru has been answering relationship and romance related questions on Rediff.com for over 13 years. She won't mince words when telling you what the problem is and what you can do about it. If you want a fresh perspective from an unbiased, objective-thinking individual about your relationship woes, Love Guru could just be the person you need to need to hear from.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Oct 22, 2024Hindi
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Relationship

Hi ma'am/sir, I am 28 yr old man fall in love with divorced woman who is 31 year old. We are in relationship from last 2 years. My parents are opposing our relationship. We lived in same village. I meet her in my sister marriage from than I start talking with her. From that time we start talking and after few months we fall in love with each other. When I was with her I got happy. But after discussing with my parents they refused for our relationship and my mother start crying and saying if you are talking with her again then don't talk with us. I am only son of my parents. I don't want to hurt them and either her. What to do ma'am? Recently in our family one of my cousin brother do love marriage and their marriage was in end after 6 months. His wife want divorce

Ans: Why are your parents opposing the match? Is it only because she’s divorced? Do you know why she’s divorced, and how well do you know her? Have you spent a lot of time with her in person or is your relationship mainly on the phone or long distance? If you’re very confident of your relationship, go ahead and marry her anyway. Your cousin’s marriage failing is no reason why yours will! Most people in the world marry for love!

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Dr Ashish

Dr Ashish Sehgal  | Answer  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Mar 11, 2023

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Hello, I am 45 yrs old, divorced , in love with 29 yrs old girl. We deeply are in love with each other, however Girl’s Parents are not agreeing to our marriage, citing age gap. It’s been 2.5 yrs, have met her Parents many times at their home. Her Parents consider me as a nice guy , but the age gap factor is not letting them to approve our relationship. Am seriously stressed and want to wary that girl only. Request you to kindly suggest 🙏
Ans: It can be challenging when families do not approve of a relationship due to age differences or other factors. However, it's important to remember that ultimately, the decision to enter into a relationship and get married is a personal one that should be based on the feelings and desires of the two people involved.

It's important to continue to communicate openly and honestly with your girlfriend and her parents about your feelings and intentions. Try to listen to their concerns and address them in a respectful and thoughtful way. It may also be helpful to enlist the support of a neutral third party, such as a family counselor or mediator, who can help facilitate a productive conversation between you and your girlfriend's parents.

However, it's also important to recognize that ultimately, you cannot control the decisions of others. If your girlfriend's parents continue to disapprove of the relationship, it may be necessary to consider whether the relationship is sustainable in the long term. It's important to consider not only your feelings for each other, but also the practical realities of your situation and whether you can build a fulfilling and happy life together despite any external challenges.

Ultimately, it's up to you and your girlfriend to decide what is best for your relationship and your future. It may be helpful to continue to work on building a strong foundation of trust, communication, and mutual support, regardless of the outcome with her parents.

..Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1651 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Sep 08, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 05, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
I wanted to get clarity on my situation. I am 24yr old and i am working person. I am loving a girl in my office since two years and she also accepted. We are from intercaste and her parents accepted. But my parents are not in a way to get convinced no matter what. They want the caste to be same also and they are completely saying that what society will tell if you are doing like this and we cant live if you do like this. But i loved the girl the most and took care of her and being with her each and every second. I dono what to do. The only idea i m having is to go away from home , do my job and be with her. Now my parents are not allowing me to go to job also instead they asked me to take wfh. Please give me some suggestions on this. Please mam. Whenever i think of her that i left her and came i m getting so much chest pain which i cant bear. please help me with this. Constraints they are saying is its intercaste and age difference as she is 3yrs elder to me. But we feel that we are more compatible and more understanding. Girls side family agreed for this as they want their daughters happiness, but from myside they are doing emotional blackmail that they cant live if i do this and all. I am in hopeless situation, please help me with some suggestions.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
At the risk of sounding judgemental, I am going to say this...you can wait a few more years to actually get married. It will offer you financial stability which can act in your favor when you actually take the news to your parents. With financial stability, comes a certain level of confidence that you can use to stand your ground and make a decision. After all, you are an adult.
Caste beliefs are very strongly etched into minds in our society and take an entire generation change to accept a person from another caste/faith/religion...
So, you can either succumb to what your parents want OR wait patiently to tell them what your decision is. But whatever it is, make sure you don't make the girl wait and them 'dump' her after a few years...that is not OKAY! Stay firm and proceed. And as for the emotional blackmail from your parents on how they will live if you do this etc, it's a very unhealthy way of holding on to what they believe and want to to be pressured by all that drama. To counter this drama, you are falling back on your financial position and the confidence that comes with it.

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

..Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |619 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Oct 04, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 16, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
Hi mam, im a lecturer since 5 years. Im in relationship with a girl from Srilanka. Most of our conversation was through mobile. She is a tutor in srilanka for 10 and below standard students. Now I'm 29, she is 27. Since 5 years we are loving each other. We hardly met. In Krishnagiri Tamilnadu I first met her in a Psychotherapy course, witch was about a month. We were good friends in the beginning of our relationship and at the end of a month course she was flying back to Srilanka, before she goes she kissed on my forehead, from then on im in love with the girl. For first few years we were happy in our relationship, but last two years onwards we fight almost every day. Both sides parents are fixing matches, both us are rejecting all the matches but we never shared with our families. Don't know where our relationship is going to end. Its not that my parents won't accept, but when my parents and siblings ask do you any one whom you want marry, or love some one I am not able to reveal to them. Many times I decided and planned and imagined to speak with my family but when it comes to reality im not able to speak. Other side she also is not revealing anything to her parents. Im rejecting the matches that are coming, she is also rejecting of hers. But both are not speaking properly now a days. Most of the time our relationship is filled with fights. Both are adjusting. Some time im feeling to stop the relationship and not to marry at all. I told her to marry as her parents say, and I don't want marry anyone. She is also saying me to marry some one and she wants remain single. But don't know what is happening between us. Im confused to continue or break up or marry her or not to marry her. Nothing is working in my mind. Recently my parents have brought a proposal who was my childhood crush. Suddenly I am indirectly telling her to marry to whom her parents give. She also getting good proposals but rejecting saying that she needs to work and earn money. Same reason I'm also giving. One more issue is she is tamilian of Srilanka and I'm Telugu from Andra. Both family members can't speak directly also. Unable to take any decisions. Kindly help me
Ans: The fact that you're not able to communicate openly with your families, despite rejecting matches on both sides, shows that there might be some fear or hesitation about fully committing to this relationship. Maybe it’s the distance, the cultural and language differences, or the struggles you’re having recently in your relationship that are making it difficult to move forward.

On the other hand, both of you seem to be stuck in a cycle where you're not happy but also not ready to let go. This might be causing even more stress and frustration, leading to the frequent fights. The decision to stay together or part ways is something only you both can make, but it sounds like there’s a lot of unresolved tension and unspoken fears in your relationship.

One thing to consider is having an honest conversation with each other, not about the fights or current frustrations, but about what you both want for the future. If you're both rejecting matches, it shows some level of commitment, but the real question is whether you both see a future together. Do you still love each other, or are you staying together out of habit and fear of the unknown?

If you both feel there is still something worth fighting for, it might be worth giving the relationship another chance by opening up to your families. This could ease the pressure you're feeling and help you both feel more supported. If, however, the love has faded and the fights have taken over, it may be time to re-evaluate whether staying together is what's best for both of you.

In any case, clarity will only come through open communication—both with her and your family. If you continue to stay in a relationship without making a clear decision, the frustration and confusion will likely grow. Take some time to reflect on what you really want, and then take the courageous step of addressing it with her and your families. This may not be easy, but it’s the first step to finding a resolution and peace in your heart.

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Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9778 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 18, 2025

Money
I am a West Bengal State Government Employee due for retirement in August 2026. I am a divorcee who lives with an Adult Son who is not financially dependent on me in a self purchased house(Cash) and also own a flat (Cash) By the time of retirement I will have 73 lacs in GPF, 31 lacs in PPF, 20 lacs in Gratuity, 11.65 lacs in Leave encashment, 20 lacs from Pension Commutation and 6.5 lacs as maturity proceeds from Cooperative Thrift Fund. Since I will draw around 38000 OPS Pension with DA thereafter per month. Will it be beneficial to invest 30 lacs in SCSS, 18 lacs in MIS and 20 Lacs in FRSBs for a cumulative monthly interest of 45000 rupees. My monthly income will be 83000 then. I plan to actively continue subscription to my PPF post retirement and need advice on what to do with the remaining 63 lacs of my corpus??? My son advises me in investing in Kisan Vikas Patras and 5 Year PO Time Deposits as these are largely liquid. PS- I have two health insurances, one the West Bengal Health Scheme Cashless and the National Insurance Mediclaim Policy for son and me with 17 lacs sum assured.
Ans: Based on your profile as a West Bengal Government Employee retiring in August 2026, and the impressive financial preparedness you've shown, here is a detailed, 360-degree analysis of your financial situation and investment choices, written in a simple and structured format.

Let’s go step by step to help you get better clarity.

? Current Financial Picture and Retirement Readiness

– You are already well-prepared for retirement. That deserves appreciation.
– You own your house. That removes rental liabilities.
– You also have another flat, fully paid for. This adds to your asset base.
– Your son is not dependent. That reduces your future financial obligations.
– You are sitting on a strong retirement corpus of Rs. 1.62 crores.
– Your post-retirement monthly pension is expected to be Rs. 38,000 with DA.
– Proposed income from safe investment options is Rs. 45,000 per month.
– That means, total monthly income will be Rs. 83,000, which is quite healthy.
– Your current and expected lifestyle appears manageable within this budget.
– You have two health covers. That gives enough financial protection from medical emergencies.

You have set a very solid financial foundation. Now, it’s time to structure the investment allocation with care.

? Evaluating the Proposed Investment Mix

You are considering the below investment plan:

– Rs. 30 lakhs in a senior citizen savings option
– Rs. 18 lakhs in monthly interest yielding postal scheme
– Rs. 20 lakhs in government floating rate savings bonds

These offer monthly interest income around Rs. 45,000.

This plan shows great prudence and awareness. But, it’s not complete.
It ensures safety and regular cashflow. But it lacks future growth.
Your pension and these options will help for regular needs.
But what about inflation 10–15 years down the line?
That’s where your portfolio must include growth assets.

? Safe Income Assets Are Essential – But Not Sufficient

– Senior savings and monthly income options offer steady interest.
– Floating rate bonds protect somewhat against rising interest rates.
– These are great for predictable monthly inflow.

But there is one issue here:
– Interest income is taxable every year.
– Real return post tax and inflation may drop below 2% in future.
– They help with stability. But they don’t create wealth.

So, this plan is strong for the short-term.
But to stay financially secure for the next 20–25 years,
you need to add some long-term growth elements.

? Liquid and Flexible Options Your Son Suggested

You mentioned your son recommended:

– Kisan Vikas Patras
– 5-Year Post Office Term Deposits

These have some benefits:
– Safe and guaranteed returns
– Slightly more liquid than other long-term fixed income options
– No market-linked risk

But there are drawbacks too:
– Both are taxable every year
– Returns may not beat inflation in long run
– Fixed interest means less flexibility during rate changes

So, while your son’s suggestion comes from care,
these products should only take a partial share of your corpus.
You can allocate around Rs. 10–15 lakhs here, not more.

? The Remaining Rs. 63 Lakhs – What to Do?

You are asking how to deploy the remaining Rs. 63 lakhs.

The answer depends on three important things:

– Do you have future large expenses planned?
– Are you willing to keep some money locked for 5 years+?
– Do you want your total income to grow every year?

Let us approach this wisely.

Break your Rs. 63 lakhs into 3 buckets:

1. Emergency & Short-term Reserve – Rs. 8 to 10 lakhs

– Keep this in a liquid mutual fund with low risk
– You can withdraw anytime within 24 hours
– Helps during medical needs or family emergencies
– This avoids breaking FDs or other long-term products

2. Medium-term Stability – Rs. 18 to 20 lakhs

– You can consider short duration mutual funds
– These are ideal for 3–5 year horizon
– They offer better post-tax returns than bank FDs
– Risk is moderate and suited for your age

You can invest in regular plans through a Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP qualification.
Avoid direct plans. These lack advice and long-term discipline.
Also, you may miss key portfolio reviews without a professional’s help.
Regular plans include embedded costs, but the value of guidance is much higher.

3. Long-term Growth – Rs. 33 to 35 lakhs

This is very important. Don’t ignore this section.
You will need to beat inflation for next 20 years.
This requires growth-oriented mutual funds.

– Choose hybrid mutual funds or balanced advantage mutual funds
– These reduce market risk by shifting between equity and debt
– Returns are better than fixed income in the long run
– You can withdraw anytime after one year with lower tax impact

You may go for monthly withdrawal plans if needed after 5 years.
Also, you can stay invested and let the funds grow with compounding.

Never invest in index funds.
They only track the market.
They don’t protect downside or volatility.
Also, they do not give alpha returns over time.
Actively managed funds do better in India.
Because fund managers can change portfolio during economic shifts.

Also, do not invest directly.
You will miss portfolio balancing, risk reviews, and exit timing.
Use a regular plan through a Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP credential.

? You Can Continue PPF Contributions Post Retirement

This is a good strategy. PPF gives tax-free interest.
Continue depositing Rs. 1.5 lakh per year.
You already have Rs. 31 lakhs in PPF.
This will become a strong tax-free legacy for your son.
You can extend the account in 5-year blocks after retirement.
This keeps money safe and growing slowly.

? Pension and Inflation Consideration

You will get Rs. 38,000 per month from OPS.
With current DA trends, this may increase slowly.
But inflation may outpace pension growth in 10–15 years.
So, income from investments must increase over time.
That’s why long-term mutual fund allocation is very important.

? No Need to Look at Annuities or Real Estate

Avoid locking large amounts in annuity plans.
They give low returns and no flexibility.
Also, do not buy more property now.
You already have two houses.
Real estate has low liquidity and high maintenance post-retirement.

? No Mention of LIC, ULIPs, or Endowment Policies

You haven’t mentioned having LIC policies or ULIPs.
If you do, check their surrender value.
Mostly, these give poor returns after adjusting for inflation.
You can surrender and reinvest the maturity value in mutual funds.
Only do this if lock-in period is over and charges are low.

? Final Insights

– You are financially well-prepared for retirement.
– Continue the plan of earning Rs. 45,000 monthly through fixed safe instruments.
– But allocate Rs. 30–35 lakhs to long-term mutual funds.
– This will grow your money for next 20 years.
– Have Rs. 8–10 lakhs in liquid funds for emergencies.
– Use regular mutual fund plans through an experienced CFP-led Mutual Fund Distributor.
– Avoid direct, annuity, and index-based options.
– Keep contributing to PPF and track expenses carefully post-retirement.
– With this balanced approach, you can enjoy peace and security.

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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