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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |581 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Mar 06, 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
KKR Question by KKR on Feb 05, 2024Hindi
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Relationship

I have been married for 23 years and father of 3 children. My age gap with my wife is 11 yrs. I have been helping my in-laws for the last 13 years financially every month and also additional medical costs. I am a single breadwinner and i earn a good income but unable to save much as my wife dont have any economic sense. secondly, she is a highly depressed woman and always threatens me of suicide or shall leave home scaring my children who are around 16 yrs of age and disturbing their studies. even a small counter point she will take it seriously and shout at me for a very long and will make all sorts of threats. I am fed up with this type of relationship with her and I am helpless as my children have another 5 yrs to go to reach adulthood. She spends too much not on luxuries but unnecessary expenses and social costs like gifts to friends and relatives and spends a lot of time for temple or pooja activities with addtional expenses.

Ans: Dear KKR
It's evident that you're dealing with a significant amount of stress and emotional strain due to your wife's behavior and financial situation. It's important to establish clear boundaries in your relationship with your wife. Communicate your concerns about her behavior and the impact it's having on you and your children. Let her know that threatening suicide or leaving home is not a healthy or productive way to resolve conflicts, and express your willingness to support her in seeking help and finding healthier ways to cope Consider sitting down with your wife to have an open and honest conversation about your financial situation and the importance of budgeting and saving for the future. Explore ways to track expenses, prioritize needs over wants, and work together to set financial goals that align with your family's long-term objectives. Consider consulting with a legal or financial advisor to explore options for protecting your assets and securing your financial future, especially if you're concerned about your wife's spending habits and the impact it may have on your financial stability. It's important to remember that you're not alone in dealing with these challenges, and there are resources and support available to help you navigate this difficult time. Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or professionals for guidance and support, and prioritize your own well-being and the well-being of your children as you work towards finding solutions to your current situation.

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1592 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 27, 2022

Relationship
Hi AnuAt the outset, thank you very much for your time to listen to my situation.I am 50 years old, married to my lover (46 years now) and blessed with two daughters. My wife comes from an upper caste with a poor background. She was my subordinate and got married in 2001 after dating her for more than 18 months.Immediately after marriage, I lost my job due to my mismanagement of responsibility with no criminal action. I suffered for six months and relocated to overseas and lived there for the past 19 years.With my hard work and commitment, my financial situation has improved considerably now. However, my wife's attitude has consistently changed in line with my financial growth. She strongly believes that because of her luck and my daughter’s luck only I was able to earn that much and live comfortably. With my severe official commitments, I did not mind her attitude that much. After the lockdown, I got the opportunity to understand the change and realised that she has constantly ill-treated me over the past 10 years. Also, I lost my parents a few years ago and my father gave his self-earned property worth a few crores to my elder brother and left nothing to me. At the same time, my wife got her ancestor property worth a few lakhs. This incident psychologically weakened me as she consistently abuses me saying she got a few lakhs worth of property whereas I got nothing from my parents. Now, for the last two years, she is not allowing me to perform my parents’ annual death ceremony rituals. She consistently uses bad words against my (departed) parents and makes most negative comments for the donations I made so far and terms me as an Idiot and useless person. She also criticises me in front of my friends and relatives.Her harassment gone to the extent of pushing me to commit suicide and for the sake of my daughter’s welfare, I managed to come out of that mindset on my own. Now, I am determined to live…. at the same time unable to absorb my wife’s harassment. I tried to explain to her in many ways and even begged her many times to stop ill-treating me. Instead, she is asking me how I am able to tolerate despite her ill-treatment for the past few years….Our physical relationship got disconnected for the past five years as she lists out silly reasons for avoiding me. She is refusing to come along with me to meet a psychologist. Also, she disconnected her long-term friends and created a new circle of friends in order to erase her past and maintain a high social image.From your expertise, kindly advise me on how to handle this situation which will be of highest support for me as I am having sleepless nights for the past 2 years.Kindly do not publish my name and request you to keep it anonymous.
Ans:

Dear S,

It’s obvious that there is something that your wife is upset about or missing and you have been blindsided by it.

It could be lack of love, attention or simply family’s worth that she might feel from money situation.

It needs a discussion but from your letter/e-mail, it doesn’t seem like she is interested in it.

What I don’t have information here is in the 19 years that you were out of the country, was she also with you?

This is vital information as things might have gone South while you were away.

Even if she did accompany you, maybe the mismanagement of responsibility situation that you mentioned was something that had thrown her off gear and insecure.

This vital information is missing for me to guide you even more effectively, but I can surely help you navigate with what is.

Yes, it needs a counsellor or a marriage therapist.

Nothing justifies talking ill about family members but when the mind is awry and unsettled, it does not think rationally which is why she is possibly displacing some anger or lack of affection or lack of something that is manifesting itself in different ways.

Ask yourself:

  • Where am I if I continue in the marriage?
  • Where am I if I don’t continue in the marriage?

This reality check will act as a compass to the next steps of action.

As a coach, it’s always nice to see a relationship work but reality might say something else.

So, be true to your thoughts and feelings, set aside any feelings of spite towards your wife and see things for what they are and move forward.

All the best!

..Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1592 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Mar 31, 2023

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Relationship
Madam, I'm 52 year old, with 20 years of married life. Have one daughter, 18 and one son, 15. I'm well earning government employee. My wife is also post-graduate. However, after marriage, she put half- hearted efforts to get govt job, but didn't succeed. She was never interested to live at different places for the sake of job and also wanted equal rank job. At that time, I didn't realize that she might be comparing with me. Any way, I was fine with any of her decisions. Later she told thatnshe wants to focus on children only. But, after 4-5 years, she started hating my all family members. While they are staying almost 1000 kms away, and except on few occasions, they never asked any help from me. Since last 10 years, she stopped talking to any of them. She doesn't allow my children to visit my native place and meet my family members, even during any marriages or function. My family members or friends aren't welcome at my home. Even after accepting all these nonsense behaviour, she never remains happy. She keeps passing sarcastic comments. She willn't dress nicely. Remains busy in watching movies/webseries on laptop. Many times, our arguments in the past turned to physical also. How long can I tolerate abuse for my family members? All such situations created toxic environment at home. Both of my children were sharp and intelligent, but now they are showing depressive symptoms. I'm not able to focus on my work and affected my personalty and performances. She wants no frills attached to me. In such case, she should have married to any orphan. She neither wants to meet any one for counselling. Now, I also snapped all relations with her family members. But looks, all the doors are also closed for me. I'm feeling suffocated. I neither leave her nor leave the world, as I love my children and my reputations. Kindly suggest the way out.
Ans: Dear Ramesh,
What it seems like to me from what you have shared is: a case of lost identity!
She has been struggling to find her acceptable place in her own eyes for herself.
In simple terms, she is not happy with the decisions that she has made in life and now chooses to complain about it by pushing people away.
Does this happen to others as well? Oh, YES!
When we have the desire to do something and then we suppress it with an excuse of taking care of the family etc, one fine day in the future, it comes back to haunt us.
In all likelihood, your wife might have done the same thing...I can only assume as from what you have shared, there is nothing else that seems to be the matter.

Now, because it has begun to affect the children, you have woken up but this has been going on with her for a while. Support her thoughts but not the behaviour that impacts everyone around. Give her an assurance that is she chooses to do something professionally, you will be there for her!

The key is not to give her solutions (that will bring down her self-esteem even lower) but to nudge her into thinking about doing something other than care for the family. Point her in a direction without being eager for her to take the bait. These things take time and the state of mind that she has now, if you push her, she will only resist. It's almost like teaching a child to walk or write for the first time. You don't walk for them but nudge them and wait for them to pick up at their own pace and praise them when they take those first baby steps. Get the drift, here? All this 'displeasure' with family members is only her way of complaining about her mind struggles.
Also, your children are old enough to support you through this journey as well. So seek their help on this.


Best wishes and it's nice to know that you still care and want to do something for her.

..Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1592 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jun 06, 2024

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Relationship
Hi Madam, I am married (arrange marriage) for 10 years with a son of 8 years, I am middle class person and giving Home loan EMI also, because of which no money is saved. My problem is that my wife always demands money and fights for it. She is all aware of my income and expenditures of every month (I have prepared a list and shares with her). I have no habits of alcohol or smoking, but she always fights with me that I spends money on my bad habits and on friends. She always say that you don't take me outside , don't spend on me and blah blah...(I do take her to movies and wherever she wants to go with me or with her friends). She is very short tempered that I avoids talking to her but she finds a chance for fight. For her demands, I left my parental flat and mother and lived with her in a rented house for 5 years and now purchased an independent home also. But, I am fed up of her demands and fights. She even fights when our son is around and even comes near my body as if she wants to hurt me....(although we never had a physical fight). I am very afraid. For your information, she also works as a teacher in a private nursery school (pays half of our home loan EMI) and she is from village background. My father expired long back and mother is living with my younger brother. I even don't meet my close friends frequently (once or twice in a month) because of her fear, as when I meet them she fights on this issue also. I want peace in my life. Kindly help.
Ans: Dear Sunil,
This needs a bit more of finding out what exactly is going on? What is the root cause of anger and the blame game with your wife?
Whatever I suggest will just be a BAND-AID solution and things will flare up yet again. There is deep-seated anger and insecurities rising (from what I understand from you.
The only thing I can say is; spend time with her on an emotional level and maybe this will ease her emotional highs and lows. But, I do feel it is time to have an intervention where as a Couple you are given to tools to work on your relationship.
Do see an expert who specializes in marriage therapy/counseling. They will be able to guide you in a very structured fashion as to how to re-start and re-build your marriage.

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  |581 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jun 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 11, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
Hi madam, I am 58 yrs old and married since 30+ yrs. Have 2 daughters. Elder one is married in 2021 and happy with her life, younger one is working in MNC. Since my marriage i didn't came to know what the relationship to be there between husband and wife as my wife is very reluctant and she loves only money. since my marriage she always fight with me for silly issues and in childhood of my children's she often beat them with whatever she got in hand. always she said that her husband and children's are useless and always give very good reasons and remarks to others in society or family. Now many times i thought of getting away from her either by doing suicide or run away from my home or divorce her. but i just wanted to leave her alone so that she can think of our presence when we are not available to her. my younger daughter is finally decided to leave the home and be alone in another rented flat or on PG due to her mother behavior. please advice if i opt for divorce and run away from home. i can't speak to any one regarding my situation and need immediate help.
Ans: It's clear that you've endured a lot over the years, and it's understandable that you're feeling overwhelmed and considering drastic measures like divorce or leaving home. Let's explore your situation with a compassionate and practical perspective.

Firstly, it's important to acknowledge your feelings. You've been dealing with a challenging relationship for a long time, and it's natural to feel the weight of it all. Your desire to escape the pain, whether through divorce or even more extreme thoughts, signals just how tough things have been. Remember, these feelings are valid, but it's crucial to find a way forward that prioritizes your well-being and safety.

Considering a divorce is a significant step, especially after being married for over 30 years. It could potentially lead to a new beginning where you and your wife might find individual peace and happiness. Before making this decision, it might be helpful to reflect on a few things:

Sometimes, the prospect of a new start can bring clarity. Have you thought about what life might look like without your current relationship's stress and conflict? Envisioning this can help you understand your true desires.

Your daughters' well-being is a significant concern. Your younger daughter's decision to move out reflects how the family dynamics are affecting her. Would a change, like a separation or divorce, potentially bring more stability and peace for everyone involved?

If it's possible, consider having a heart-to-heart conversation with your wife. Sharing your feelings and how her actions have impacted you and your family might open a door to understanding or change. It’s a difficult conversation but can sometimes lead to unexpected resolutions.

Consulting a therapist or counselor can be invaluable. They can provide you with a safe space to express your feelings and offer guidance on managing your situation. A professional can also help you and your wife if there's any possibility of working through your issues together.

If divorce seems like the best option, seeking legal advice is crucial. Understanding your rights and the practical aspects of separation can help you make an informed decision.

Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. Lean on trusted friends, family, or support groups for emotional backing. Your happiness and mental health are incredibly important, and finding a path that leads you to peace is worth the effort. Whatever you decide, take small, thoughtful steps towards creating a better situation for yourself and your family.

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8268 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 21, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 21, 2025Hindi
Hello sir I have 5 cr asset 1 cr fd 1 cr PPF note I want to invest in mutual funds which is zero as in date I am interested for lum sum in large cap icici small cap nippon mid cap Motilal Osatwal and flexi cap parag parekh please suggest and guide me
Ans: You have done very well in building Rs 5 crore asset base.

It is also wise that you are thinking to enter mutual funds now.

Let us assess and build a plan. From a 360-degree angle. Simple language. Deep analysis.

Please follow each section below carefully.

Your Current Financial Position
You have Rs 5 crore worth of total assets.

Rs 1 crore is in Fixed Deposits. This gives safety and liquidity.

Rs 1 crore is in PPF. This gives tax-free and risk-free returns.

You have zero mutual fund investments currently.

You want to now begin investing in mutual funds via lump sum.

You are considering four categories: Large Cap, Mid Cap, Small Cap, Flexi Cap.

You have mentioned specific schemes. But I will guide category-wise. Without any scheme names.

Let’s Appreciate Your Thought Process
You are not putting everything in mutual funds. This is a good move.

You are balancing traditional instruments like PPF and FDs.

You are taking a gradual, thoughtful entry into equity investments.

You are aware about diversification. That is why you are considering multiple categories.

Suggested Asset Allocation – A Balanced Strategy
To become a wise long-term investor, we need to balance safety and growth.

Let’s do a proper allocation.

Rs 2 crore: Can stay in FD + PPF. Already in place. Retain for safety.

Rs 3 crore: Can be planned for equity mutual funds. Do not invest all at once.

Start with Rs 1 crore lump sum first. Keep balance Rs 2 crore ready in FD.

This way you don’t take too much risk at once.

Over next 12 to 18 months, move rest Rs 2 crore slowly to mutual funds.

Recommended Category-Wise Allocation for Rs 1 Crore Lump Sum
Now we split Rs 1 crore across different categories.

This gives diversification and reduces concentration risk.

Large Cap Fund: Rs 25 lakh
Stable, less volatile. Invests in top 100 companies.

Flexi Cap Fund: Rs 25 lakh
Fund manager can pick across large, mid, and small caps. Balanced flexibility.

Mid Cap Fund: Rs 25 lakh
Gives potential growth. Slightly higher volatility.

Small Cap Fund: Rs 25 lakh
Very high risk. Very high return potential. Invest only if you can stay for 10+ years.

All these should be actively managed mutual funds. Not index funds or ETFs.

Why Not Index Funds?
Many investors believe index funds are low cost. But that alone is not enough.

Index funds cannot beat the market. They only copy it.

During market falls, index funds fall as much or more.

No fund manager is present to manage risk.

In volatile times, actively managed funds perform better.

Good actively managed funds give better returns than index funds. With better downside protection.

Why Not Direct Funds?
Direct funds look cheaper. But not always better.

Without a Certified Financial Planner or MFD, there is no personalised guidance.

Direct plans leave investors confused in bad markets.

You may enter or exit at the wrong time. This reduces overall returns.

Regular funds through a trusted MFD + CFP ensure strategy is followed.

They help you stay invested and adjust based on your goals.

Taxation Awareness – Keep These in Mind
Equity mutual fund gains above Rs 1.25 lakh (LTCG) taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term gains taxed at 20%.

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

PPF is tax-free. FD is taxed as per slab.

So hold equity mutual funds for minimum 5 years to benefit from taxation.

How to Proceed – Step by Step Approach
Step 1: Identify your financial goals. Retirement, children, travel, etc.

Step 2: Choose category-wise funds with help of Certified Financial Planner.

Step 3: Invest Rs 1 crore in 4 parts: Large, Flexi, Mid, Small.

Step 4: Keep balance Rs 2 crore in liquid FDs.

Step 5: Start STP (Systematic Transfer Plan) from FD to mutual funds monthly.

Step 6: Review portfolio every 6 months with your planner.

Step 7: Rebalance portfolio yearly. Take help from Certified Financial Planner.

Emergency Fund and Liquidity Plan
Keep at least Rs 20 lakh separate for emergency.

Use liquid mutual funds or short-term FDs.

Do not touch equity funds in emergencies.

Medical or sudden family needs must be funded from safe instruments.

Insurance and Risk Planning
Check if you have proper health insurance. For you and dependents.

Life insurance may not be needed at this stage. Still, assess with a planner.

Do not mix insurance and investment.

Behavioural Discipline Matters Most
Market will go up and down. Do not panic.

Stay for at least 10 years in equity mutual funds.

Avoid switching funds frequently.

Monitor but do not react too much.

Trust the process. Be patient. Wealth will grow.

Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not invest lump sum in only one fund or one category.

Do not chase past performance.

Do not keep too much in FD beyond emergency or short-term needs.

Do not fall for NFOs or trendy new funds.

Do not withdraw early unless for goals.

Final Insights
You are already financially sound. That is a strong foundation.

Mutual funds will now add a growth engine to your wealth.

Choose actively managed funds. Avoid index and direct plans.

Take help of a trusted Certified Financial Planner to manage this journey.

Stay diversified. Stay patient. Stay goal-focused.

Mutual funds will help you become wealthier. In a stable and systematic way.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8268 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 21, 2025

How to become crorepati with sip
Ans: Becoming a crorepati through SIP is a smart financial dream.

It is very much possible for anyone.

Even if your income is modest, you can still reach Rs. 1 crore.

It only needs discipline, planning, and patience.

Let us explore how this can be achieved through a 360-degree approach.

We will break this into simple steps and areas to focus on.

We will also assess every important angle that can affect the outcome.

We will keep it practical and achievable for every Indian household.

Let us now begin step-by-step.

? Understanding SIP – The First Step

SIP means Systematic Investment Plan. You invest a fixed amount every month.

It is done into a mutual fund of your choice. You choose an amount you are comfortable with.

It builds discipline in investing and works well with monthly income.

It uses the principle of rupee cost averaging. It helps you buy more units when the price is low.

SIP works best in equity mutual funds for long-term wealth creation.

? Start Early, Invest Regularly

Time plays a very big role in wealth creation. Start early if possible.

Even small SIPs can become big amounts over time.

The longer you stay invested, the more your money can grow.

Power of compounding needs time to work effectively.

If you delay, then you need to invest more to reach the same goal.

? Choose Actively Managed Mutual Funds

Index funds look cheap but are not always better. They copy the market.

Index funds do not perform better than active funds in all conditions.

Actively managed funds have expert fund managers. They select the right stocks.

Actively managed funds can outperform the market with good strategies.

In India, market is still not fully efficient. So active management works better.

? Avoid Direct Mutual Funds – Go with Regular Funds via CFP

Direct funds may look cheaper but have hidden disadvantages.

In direct plans, you do not get personalised advice. You are on your own.

No guidance on when to enter or exit, or which fund to choose.

Regular plans have Certified Financial Planners (CFP) who track your goals.

They help you avoid wrong investments and improve returns.

Regular funds ensure proper handholding and better fund suitability.

? Decide Your Investment Amount and Time Horizon

Fix a goal – you want to become a crorepati. Write it down.

Decide when you want to reach Rs. 1 crore. 10 years? 15 years?

Choose your SIP amount based on your time frame.

Longer time means lower SIP needed. Shorter time means higher SIP.

Start with what you can afford. Increase it yearly if possible.

? Increase SIP with Income – Step-Up Strategy

When your income increases, your SIP should also increase.

This is called step-up SIP. You can increase it by 5% or 10% every year.

This makes your goal easier and quicker to reach.

It balances your lifestyle and investment growth.

Step-up SIP helps you reach bigger goals without stress.

? Diversify – But Keep It Simple

Do not put all money in one mutual fund. Use 3 to 4 funds.

You can have a large-cap fund, mid-cap fund and a flexi-cap fund.

You may also include sectoral or thematic fund for growth.

Do not over-diversify. Too many funds will dilute returns.

Choose quality funds with consistent long-term performance.

? Monitor Performance Every Year

Review your SIPs once a year. See if the fund is doing well.

Compare with other similar funds in same category.

Replace poor performers with better ones with help of a CFP.

Do not change funds too often. Give them time to perform.

Stay patient. Equity needs time to give results.

? Keep SIPs Running Even During Market Falls

Do not stop SIP when market is low. That is when SIP works best.

You get more units at lower prices. That boosts long-term returns.

Market corrections are normal. They help in wealth building.

Never time the market. Just continue SIP without emotions.

Discipline and consistency are the real wealth builders.

? Taxation Awareness – Know Before You Sell

Equity mutual funds have new tax rules now.

If you sell after 1 year, gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.

If you sell within 1 year, gains are taxed at 20%.

Debt mutual funds gains are taxed as per income slab.

Always plan withdrawals to reduce tax impact.

? Use SWP in Retirement Phase – SIP for Wealth Building

SIP is used to build wealth before retirement.

After retirement, use SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan) for income.

It gives monthly cash flow without disturbing investment.

Combine SWP with debt mutual funds for stability.

Helps in managing expenses while wealth continues to grow.

? Keep Emergency Fund Separate

Do not use SIP for emergency needs. Keep separate savings for that.

Emergency fund must be 6 to 12 months of expenses.

Use liquid mutual funds or short-term FDs for this.

This protects your SIP and long-term goal from disruptions.

Emergency fund gives peace of mind. Very important for every family.

? Stay Protected – Don’t Ignore Insurance

Buy good health insurance for all family members.

Have term insurance if you have dependents.

Do not mix insurance and investment. Avoid ULIP and endowment plans.

Surrender old LIC policies or investment-cum-insurance if returns are low.

Invest surrendered amount in mutual funds to boost growth.

? Goal-Based Planning Is Key

Your goal is not just Rs. 1 crore. It is why you want it.

Maybe for child education, retirement, or financial freedom.

Write down your goals. Link each SIP to a goal.

It keeps you focused and avoids unnecessary expenses.

Goal clarity improves savings and investment decisions.

? Avoid Emotional Investing – Trust the Process

Do not get influenced by news, friends, or market ups and downs.

Stick to your SIP. Trust the process and your planner.

Fear and greed are biggest enemies of wealth creation.

Keep SIPs boring and automatic. That is how wealth grows.

Discipline beats timing. Patience beats panic.

? Plan with a Certified Financial Planner

Certified Financial Planner helps you select the right funds.

They help create customised plan based on your goals.

They review your progress and make changes when needed.

Their guidance helps avoid costly mistakes. Very valuable support.

Choose CFPs with experience in mutual funds and retirement planning.

? Do Not Chase High Returns – Chase Consistency

Do not run behind best performing fund every year.

Past returns do not guarantee future performance.

Choose funds with consistent 5 to 10 year records.

Focus on funds with risk-adjusted returns, not just returns.

Consistency helps your SIP reach target smoothly.

? Don’t Delay – The Best Day to Start is Today

Many people wait for perfect time to invest. That never comes.

Start SIP with whatever amount you can now.

Even Rs. 1000 per month is a good start.

Increase amount later. But don’t delay the start.

Start early, stay long, and stay invested. That’s the simple formula.

? Automate Everything – Make SIP Hassle-Free

Set auto debit from your bank for SIP.

Choose date after salary credit. Never delay SIP.

Treat SIP like any other important monthly bill.

Automation ensures discipline. No temptation to spend first.

You focus on earning, SIP focuses on growing.

? Watch Out for SIP Disruptors

Avoid taking too many loans or EMIs. They reduce your SIP capacity.

Do not stop SIP to buy non-essentials. Plan purchases carefully.

Emergency, job loss or illness should not affect SIP. Plan for it.

Keep a buffer always. Avoid stress and continue investing.

Financial freedom comes with consistent behaviour.

? Finally – Your Journey to 1 Crore is a Reality

Becoming crorepati with SIP is not magic. It is method.

It needs time, planning, and belief in the process.

Avoid shortcuts. Stay away from market tips and trends.

Use SIP with right funds, right mindset, and right advisor.

This journey gives you more than money. It gives financial confidence.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8268 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 21, 2025

Dear Sir I am around 60 yrs of age and retiring after 3 months. My monthly expenses is around 200,000 INR per month. In order to lead same lifestyle how much corpus is required. Please do advice how we need to invest in various FDs, MFs and PPFs, etc. We donot have any EMI as such. Look forward hearing from you. Deepa
Ans: You are doing the right thing by thinking ahead. Retirement is a new phase. With the right planning, it can be a peaceful one.

You are close to retirement. You wish to maintain a monthly lifestyle expense of Rs 2 lakh. That means Rs 24 lakh every year. You also have no EMIs. This is very good. Let’s plan from a 360-degree perspective.

Let’s assess your retirement lifestyle needs, required corpus, and ideal investments in simple steps.

?

Understanding Your Retirement Lifestyle

You plan to retire in 3 months. This is a critical stage to plan calmly.

?

Monthly expenses are Rs 2 lakh. This shows a dignified lifestyle with comfort.

?

No EMIs means you start with a clean slate. Very positive foundation.

?

You wish to retain the same lifestyle. That means the corpus must beat inflation.

?

Post-retirement income should be regular, low-risk, and tax-efficient.

?

Liquidity must be available. Health care needs can come up anytime.

?

You must plan for at least 25-30 years post retirement. Life expectancy is rising.

?

Expenses will rise every 5-6 years. So plan to beat inflation.

?

Your focus should be on safety, steady income, and flexibility.

?

Required Retirement Corpus: Assessment

Based on your Rs 2 lakh/month, yearly need is Rs 24 lakh.

?

If we consider 25 years of retirement, that’s Rs 6 crore in today’s money.

?

But we must consider inflation. In 5 years, Rs 2 lakh will feel like Rs 2.5–3 lakh.

?

Hence, you need a larger retirement corpus. Around Rs 7 to 8 crore would be comfortable.

?

This will help maintain your lifestyle and tackle medical or unexpected needs.

?

If corpus is less than Rs 7 crore, then we need to plan smarter.

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Use diversification. Use multiple instruments. Create buckets based on time horizon.

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Don’t put all in one place. You need a good balance of risk and safety.

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Asset Allocation Strategy After Retirement

First focus is capital protection.

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Second focus is monthly income.

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Third focus is inflation beating growth.

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Split your corpus into 3 parts: Short term, Medium term, and Long term buckets.

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Bucket 1 – Short-Term (Next 3 years of expenses)

Allocate around Rs 70–75 lakh.

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Keep in bank FDs, sweep-in FDs, and ultra-short-term mutual funds.

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This part gives you monthly withdrawal facility. It is liquid and safe.

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Invest in FDs with quarterly interest payouts for steady flow.

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Choose banks with good credit ratings, preferably large private or PSU banks.

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Ultra-short-term mutual funds offer 6-7% and are more tax efficient.

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This bucket is not meant for growth. Only for stability and access.

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Bucket 2 – Medium-Term (4 to 10 years)

Allocate around Rs 2.5 to 3 crore.

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Invest in conservative hybrid mutual funds and balanced advantage funds.

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These funds adjust equity-debt mix dynamically. Less risky than equity funds.

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Returns can be in the 8–10% range. This beats inflation comfortably.

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Use SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan) to take monthly amounts.

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You can take Rs 40,000 to Rs 50,000 monthly from this bucket.

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SWP is more tax efficient than FD interest.

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Long term capital gains above Rs 1.25 lakh/year taxed at 12.5%.

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STCG taxed at 20%. So holding for long is better.

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Regular plans through MFDs with CFP support give better tracking and guidance.

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Avoid direct funds unless you can do in-depth review regularly.

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Regular funds give access to advisor support and portfolio rebalancing.

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Bucket 3 – Long-Term Growth (10+ years)

Allocate Rs 3 to 3.5 crore here.

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Use well-diversified actively managed mutual funds.

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Choose from large cap, large & mid cap, flexi cap, focused, or multi-asset.

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These funds help grow the corpus and beat long-term inflation.

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Avoid index funds. They blindly follow the index without active stock selection.

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Actively managed funds can protect better during market falls.

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A good fund manager makes selective calls. This gives better results.

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Rebalance your portfolio every 2 years with a Certified Financial Planner.

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Use dividend reinvestment or growth option. Withdraw only when needed.

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Don’t over-withdraw. This is your retirement anchor.

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PPF, Senior Citizen Saving Scheme, and Post Office Options

PPF is good, but has 15-year lock-in. At 60, liquidity becomes concern.

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If you already have PPF account, let it mature. Extend in blocks of 5 years only if needed.

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SCSS is suitable. Offers attractive interest. Limit is Rs 30 lakh per individual.

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Safe for a portion of retirement corpus. Good for capital preservation.

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Post Office Monthly Income Scheme can be considered. But rates change.

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Don’t lock too much in long-tenure options. You need liquidity too.

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Tax Planning After Retirement

Plan your income smartly to stay in lower tax brackets.

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FDs are taxed at slab rates. Plan accordingly.

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Mutual funds offer better tax efficiency.

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Use SWP from equity mutual funds for steady tax-friendly income.

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For debt mutual funds, taxation is as per your slab. Use with planning.

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Spread your withdrawals across financial years to manage tax.

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Submit Form 15H if your taxable income is below limit.

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Take help from your MFD or CFP for tax-efficient withdrawal plans.

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Health Insurance and Emergency Fund

Keep Rs 20 to 25 lakh separately for emergencies.

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Maintain health insurance even after retirement.

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Take super top-up plans if base policy is small.

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Don’t depend fully on employer’s insurance. It ends with retirement.

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Medical costs can wipe out corpus if not planned.

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Also keep Rs 3–5 lakh in savings account for minor needs.

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Estate Planning: Important But Often Missed

Prepare a clear and updated Will.

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Nominate family members in all financial accounts.

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Inform spouse or children about investments and bank details.

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Keep copies of all insurance, MF, FD and other assets safely.

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You are planning for your family’s future. Keep them informed.

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Investment Discipline and Annual Review

Review your plan every year. Retirement is not a one-time setup.

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Adjust for inflation and market movements.

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Rebalance portfolio with help of a CFP.

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Stay invested even during market falls. Don’t panic and withdraw.

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Withdraw only what is needed monthly.

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Maintain some cash buffer to avoid early redemption.

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Long-term growth needs patience and discipline.

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Avoid These Common Retirement Investment Mistakes

Don’t invest everything in FDs. Returns won’t beat inflation.

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Don’t put full amount in equity either. Risk is high.

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Avoid direct mutual funds. Regular plans give guidance and support.

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Don’t go for ULIPs, investment insurance, or traditional plans for returns.

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Don’t fall for high-return promises from unknown agents.

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Never lend big amounts to relatives without documentation.

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Avoid complex structured products. Keep it simple and liquid.

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Don’t ignore medical and long-term care planning.

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Avoid long lock-in plans. Flexibility is more important now.

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Don’t take new loans unless absolutely needed.

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Finally

Deepa, you are entering a new phase in life. A well-planned one can be peaceful.

You’ve lived responsibly. Now it is time to plan your wealth for protection and income.

Start with safety. Then add income-generating instruments. Keep some for growth.

Diversify using the 3-bucket method. Review every year. Stay informed and calm.

With the right approach, you can enjoy 25+ years of peaceful retirement.

Appreciate your clarity and foresight. More power to your next chapter.

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

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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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