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Wife gone to parents, fearing false dowry case - how to protect myself?

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |581 Answers  |Ask -

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

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 - Feb 17, 2025Hindi
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Relationship

Madam, I am in the midst of a separation after two years of troubled relationship and my wife has gone to her parents' home. I am afraid that they will hoist false dowry harassment case against me and my parents though there is no such demands from our side. Is there any legal way that we can seek protection from such false cases ?

Ans: you need to consult expert lawyer for same

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1595 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jul 25, 2023

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 22, 2023Hindi
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Please keep this anonymous I am married for last 12 years and I have a daughter. After marriage I lost my father and he was 70. I have a mother and we have a house with two floors that my father constructed. I am well educated and earn well. I am 42 now. After 4 years into marriage I suffered from cancer and suffered for 2 years with treatment and surgery. Still I managed to work and earn for my family and continued to work. After I fought cancer completely and did not have any cancer left in me. I am doing fine supporting my family. My wife and inlaws started accusing me of dowry constantly there after because I am a cancer survivor and there is no guarantee of my life and I may die any moment or my illness may take me away anytime. I am working and still providing for my wife and daughter from clothing, schooling, rent, food, recreation, trips. My wife does not spend even a little for family. She hoards all the money. My mother is a widow and she gets some pension and my wife stops me from giving money to my mother. My inlaws and my wife harassed me & my mother for the house asking to give the entire house. I have another brother and sister who are also entitled to own my father's property but my inlaws and wife harass me for full claim of my father property because I fell ill. This has been constantly faced by me in the last 10 years into my marriage. I am out of my illness and I am leading a normal life for last 8 years. I also safeguarded my wife and my daughter by purchasing a property of 2 crores from the money that I earned and have given full control of the property to my wife. Still my wife and inlaws behave the same that I may die anytime and they are always behind my mother's house for complete will and ownership. I am tired of all this, even during my illness, i supported myself financially and with my savings. I have worked for 20+ years and I have spent all my earnings and savings and purchased a 2 crore land property for my wife and daughter's future. I also have health issues and medical expenses for which I have no money left or savings left. My inlaws are rich and own 2 commercial complex which gives them about 2Lac rent per month. I have never asked for them for any financial help but still they are behind me and my family for money and property which all seems too much harassment for me. I need to save money for my daughter's education and marriage. Or I am telling my wife that we can use the property that I have made for her education and marriage but she does not agree and asks me to construct a new house worth 50Lac and again she does not want to pitch in and contribute. Can you guide me on how should I handle this financial committment that never seems to end inspite of giving off everything I have to them ?
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
The fact that you are sharing your story which is indeed sad tells me that you know what must be done but are hesitating to do it.
When there is no respect in a marriage and for the spouse and his needs and the issue has become money and to attain that money at all costs, that is not a marriage anymore. It only speaks of selfishness.
You are right in protecting your interests and that of your daughter. So, time to toughen up and say NO to your wife and her family. It may seem harsh to them at first, but be very assertive. You have the right to plan your finances especially when family around you have begun to act like predators.
So taking a loan is only going to bleed your finances more and if you are convinced you don't want to do that, then please don't.
Yes, there will be arguments and big fights, but do what is right by you and for you. It may seem selfish but it is only self-care and self-love. This should also help you become fitter physically and emotionally to lead a better quality life.

All the best!

..Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |581 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jul 22, 2023

Relationship
Please keep my question anonymous I am married for last 12 years and I have a daughter. After marriage I lost my father and he was 70. I have a mother and we have a house with two floors that my father constructed. I am well educated and earn well. I am 42 now. After 4 years into marriage I suffered from cancer and suffered for 2 years with treatment and surgery. Still I managed to work and earn for my family and continued to work. After I fought cancer completely and did not have any cancer left in me. I am doing fine supporting my family. My wife and inlaws started accusing me of dowry constantly there after because I am a cancer survivor and there is no guarantee of my life and I may die any moment or my illness may take me away anytime. I am working and still providing for my wife and daughter from clothing, schooling, rent, food, recreation, trips. My wife does not spend even a little for family. She hoards all the money. My mother is a widow and she gets some pension and my wife stops me from giving money to my mother. My inlaws and my wife harassed me & my mother for the house asking to give the entire house. I have another brother and sister who are also entitled to own my father's property but my inlaws and wife harass me for full claim of my father property because I fell ill. This has been constantly faced by me in the last 10 years into my marriage. I am out of my illness and I am leading a normal life for last 8 years. I also safeguarded my wife and my daughter by purchasing a property of 2 crores from the money that I earned and have given full control of the property to my wife. Still my wife and inlaws behave the same that I may die anytime and they are always behind my mother's house for complete will and ownership. I am tired of all this, even during my illness, i supported myself financially and with my savings. I have worked for 20+ years and I have spent all my earnings and savings and purchased a 2 crore land property for my wife and daughter's future. I also have health issues and medical expenses for which I have no money left or savings left. My inlaws are rich and own 2 commercial complex which gives them about 2Lac rent per month. I have never asked for them for any financial help but still they are behind me and my family for money and property which all seems too much harassment for me. I need to save money for my daughter's education and marriage. Or I am telling my wife that we can use the property that I have made for her education and marriage but she does not agree and asks me to construct a new house worth 50Lac and again she does not want to pitch in and contribute. Can you guide me on how should I handle this financial committment that never seems to end inspite of giving off everything I have to them ?
Ans: I'm sorry to hear about the difficult situation you're facing with your wife and in-laws. It's clear that you have been through a lot, including battling cancer and overcoming financial challenges to support your family. It's important to remember that you deserve support and understanding from your spouse and in-laws during these trying times.

Here are some suggestions on how to handle this ongoing financial commitment and the issues you're facing:

Open communication: Have an honest and open conversation with your wife about your financial situation, your concerns, and the importance of working together as a team. Explain the financial constraints you are facing due to your health issues and medical expenses. Ensure that she understands the importance of planning for your daughter's education and future.
Seek professional advice: If necessary, consult with a financial advisor or a family counselor to mediate the discussions and help find a resolution. A neutral third party might be able to provide insights and suggestions to manage the financial matters more effectively.
Legal consultation: Since there are disputes over property and ownership, it might be wise to consult with a lawyer to understand your rights and options related to your father's property. They can help you navigate the legal aspects and protect your interests.
Support from extended family: Reach out to your brother and sister for support and understanding during these challenging times. They may be able to provide emotional and even financial support to help you and your mother.
Set boundaries: Clearly communicate with your wife and in-laws about your expectations and boundaries. Make it clear that you won't tolerate harassment or demands that are unfair or unreasonable.
Financial planning: If possible, create a financial plan for your daughter's education and future needs. Discuss with your wife how you can contribute together to achieve these goals, considering your current financial constraints.
Seek support for yourself: Going through so much stress can be emotionally draining. Consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor to help you cope with the situation and manage your emotions.
Stay strong and assertive: Remember that you have been through a lot and have worked hard to provide for your family. Stay assertive in protecting your interests while maintaining respect and empathy.
Ultimately, it's essential to prioritize your daughter's well-being and future. Ensure that the decisions made are fair and in the best interest of all involved parties. If the situation becomes too overwhelming, don't hesitate to seek legal advice to protect your rights and assets. Remember, it's okay to seek help and support when dealing with challenging circumstances like this.

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1595 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Oct 25, 2023

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 09, 2023Hindi
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I have 28 + years of frustrated and abusive and absolutely unsatisfied marriage. It was arranged but involved bitterness from both sides. My father did my relationship because of temptation and so many false facts from the in -laws' side. I was not interested but due to family compulsions I couldn't resist. Somehow i feel sad that my father got trapped due to greed and always feel bad about him, my mother was illiterate and did not have much opinion on anything. It was full of falsehood and cheating. I am very simple and minimalist persons, just after marriage wife and inlaws started torturing me to breakaway from my parents, being alone son and with the help of sisters managed parents with lot of difficulties but thought time will heal. I was thinking of separation just after 6 months but somehow was in difficult shape, couldn't ask. Meanwhile Father in law died and i thought it's inhuman to give separation at this critical time and accepted my destiny, My wife was very clever and managed balanced relation till her brother and sister got settled and we decided to welcome kids and blessed with two sons but after all her responsibility over, she again showed same behavior rather more aggressive and color and i almost separated from parents. I am in Govt service and was threatened to file a false case, with all difficulties, managed with balancing, hiding something here and there. After the death of parents , things worsened and she is eying on all property of inheritance to be sold . I don't trust her at all , I want to give all to my sons and then quit. She always threatens , i want to be separated and live my old age peacefully alone without any property but all I want to give to my sons , not to her . Please suggest a way , I am afraid she can file a false domestic violence case or even to give me poison . I am very tense nowadays and my health is deteriorating.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Never live in fear because that can always be used by someone who is searching for an opportunity to meddle with your life.
Deal with this fear in two ways:
1. For fear of false case filing against you, kindly approach a lawyer who will guide you on how to protect your assets
2. For fear of the way your life is moving about in an unsettling manner, do work on it rather than fear it
- Separation or not, will have to be decided by you and your wife and make it as amicable as possible...
- If there are chances of reconciliation, do lay down some ground rules for both of you which includes deeper level of communication, deeper listening, trust building...

Most relationships sour over a period of time, because 'taking for granted' seeps in, there are unrealistic expectations for one another, children become an excuse for not spending enough time each other, family members somehow get into the equation which allows little room for the couple to understand one another...
the list goes on...
It simply means: Marriage is something that needs constant working on...it requires time, energy and effort...

All the best!

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1595 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Feb 11, 2025

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I've married a divorcee few years back who has two teenage kids, a boy and a girl studying final year chemical engineering. While I'm in ok terms with the boy, the girl who is supposed to be taken care of by her father according to court order but stays with us due to harrassment started showing her true colours by creating unnecessary problems, goaded by my wife's relatives who dont like her remarriage to me. I try very much to stay cool whenever she fights but sometimes lose my patience and shout at her. She is a very vengeful girl and I recently came to know that she is planning to file sexual harrassment charges against me. I am scared of the insults if she files such a case merely to hurt me and her mother. She openly mocks that the law and authorities will be always on her side. Kindly advise me on what precautions I can take to avoid getting framed and lose my dignity.
Ans: Dear manikantaprabhu,
Legal advice is a lawyer's domain and you can seek the guidance of one.
What does your wife have to say about her daughter's actions? Is she also unable to control what is happening? Why is the girl's father not in the picture?
Obviously the divorce of her parents hasn't been easy on the girl and at an impressionable age, they can easily be swayed by relatives at a vulnerable time like this. I would ask your wife to step in and take care of this as she is the only person who the girl can trust now. You have not shared what your wife is doing to manage the situation. She has a huge role to play right now in terms of providing emotional support to her daughter through a loving and caring environment. Things may change...

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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Milind

Milind Vadjikar  |1199 Answers  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Apr 29, 2025

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I am 41 years old male working in a private firm and investing from 2017 in MFs and accumulated around 20 lakhs. My target is to achieve 3 crores in 15 years ( from 2025 ) . My portfolio is given below , Apart from MF investing NPS & PPF and some times in Direct equity. Question : 1) Is my fund selection ok , With this current Portfolio along with 10 % Stepup can i achieve my goal. 2) Is SBI blue chip & HSBC small cap funds ok or do I switch to other funds ? 3) Want to invest 5000 more, in which fund should I allocate ? 4) Shall I stop PPF and that money I divert to a mutual fund? 5) Some other funds are also there in my portfolio which I stopped SIP but did not withdraw the amount. What is the best strategy in this case? Mutual Funds S/no Fund name Amount (RS) /month 1 SBI Blue Chip fund 5000 2 Parag Parikh Flexi Cap fund 10000 3 Kotak Multicap Fund 5000 4 Motilal Oswal Mid Cap fund 10000 5 HDFC Mid Cap opportunities 5000 7 HSBC Small Cap fund 5000 8 Nippon India Small Cap fund 5000 Total 45000 S/no NPS Amount (RS) /month 1 Tier -1 7000 2 Tier -2 3000 PPF Amount (RS) / year 1 ICICI PPF 60000
Ans: Hello;

Please find pointwise reply to your queries:

1. You already have allocation to small and mid caps through Flexi cap and multicap funds. Despite that you may have additional allocation to One dedicated mid and small cap fund but not two!

The monthly sip's into second small cap and midcap fund may instead be moved to an aggressive hybrid type mutual fund and multi asset allocation type mutual fund.

You may achieve your target with the proposed step up(10%) planned even considering 10% modest returns from MF investments.

2. Funds are okay however you need to review risk-adjusted performance every year with reference to the benchmark and category average and then decide suitably.

3. You may invest additional 5 K in gold mutual fund.

4. Keep contributing to PPF. It's a social security scheme and goes towards sovereign debt in your overall asset allocation.

5. Review past MF holding in line with your overall asset allocation, portfolio overlap, risk adjusted performance and decide as appropriate.

You may select and avoid funds from suggested categories based on risk adjusted performance criteria.

This being a neutral forum we are prohibited to recommend xyz fund.

Happy Investing;

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8314 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 29, 2025

Money
Hi Madam, I purchased 200gm of RBI Sovereign gold bond in August 2020. Should i go for early redemption or wait for 8 years .Regards Puneet Dave
Ans: You have invested in RBI Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) in August 2020. You hold 200 grams, which is a sizeable investment. You are now considering whether to redeem early or hold till maturity. Let’s assess from all angles.

 
 
Understanding Your SGB Investment

 
 

You bought it in August 2020. The 8-year maturity will be in August 2028.

 
 

So, 3.5+ years are over. Around 4.5 years are still left.

 
 

You earn 2.5% annual interest on the issue price. That is paid half-yearly.

 
 

At maturity, you get full market value of gold (as per RBI price on maturity date).

 
 

Gains at maturity are fully tax-free if held till 8 years. This is the biggest advantage.

 
 
Early Redemption – What You Should Know

 
 

RBI allows early exit only after 5 years, and that too only on interest payout dates.

 
 

If you redeem before 8 years, capital gains are taxable.

 
 

Gains will be taxed at 20% after indexation if held more than 3 years.

 
 

That reduces the post-tax returns. You lose the full tax-free benefit.

 
 

Also, if you sell in the secondary market, prices may be lower than actual value.

 
 
Why It’s Better to Hold Till Maturity

 
 

The biggest reason to hold is zero tax on capital gains after 8 years.

 
 

You also continue to earn 2.5% annual interest, which is over and above gold price return.

 
 

The longer you stay, the more you benefit from compounding on gold price growth.

 
 

Your total return = Gold appreciation + 2.5% interest + Zero tax. This is unmatched.

 
 

Selling now will only give you part of this benefit. You will lose long-term compounding.

 
 
When Early Exit Can Be Considered

 
 

If you are in urgent need of money, then only consider early redemption.

 
 

If you are switching to another asset for a defined financial goal, then it's acceptable.

 
 

But even then, use the RBI redemption window (after 5 years), not the market.

 
 

Don’t sell SGBs on stock exchange. It gives lower price and liquidity is poor.

 
 
Suggested Action Plan for You

 
 

You have waited for 3.5 years. Just wait for the remaining 4.5 years.

 
 

You will get full value with 0% tax, which no other gold investment gives.

 
 

Keep the 2.5% interest going to your bank account. Use it or reinvest it.

 
 

Review again after August 2025 (5 years). But likely, maturity will be best option.

 
 

Holding till August 2028 will give you the maximum financial benefit.

 
 
Final Insights

 
 

Your SGB investment is in the right direction. It gives safe, tax-efficient, and stable returns.

 
 

Holding it till maturity is almost always the best choice unless there is urgent need.

 
 

Don’t be influenced by short-term gold price movements. Let it grow tax-free.

 
 

You have made a smart decision in 2020. Just give it the full 8 years to reward you.

 
 

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8314 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 29, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 29, 2025
Money
I am 43 years old and an aggressive investor and I started investing 1 lac per month in SIP in 2019. These are my current funds of 20k each per month : 1. CANARA ROBECO EMERGING EQUITIES 2. HDFC MID-CAP OPPORTUNITIES FUND 3. SBI FLEXICAP FUND 4. ICICI PRUDENTIAL BLUECHIP FUND 5. NIPPON INDIA SMALL CAP FUND In 2024, i started to invest another 1.8 lacs per month split in the following funds : 6. Quant Small Cap Fund 7. Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund 8. Canara Robeco Infrastructure 9. Quant Large and Mid Cap Fund 10. Bandhan Small cap Fund 11. Quant Commodities Fund 12. LIC MF Manufacturing Fund 13. Quant Dynamic Asset Allocation Fund 14. INVESCO INDIA LARGE AND MID CAP FUND 15. SBI Automotive Opportunities Fund 16. Motilal Oswal Large and Midcap Fund Could you share your views on my overall portfolio please, and if I should change any of them ? I am a long term investor and not in any hurry to sell. Thanks
Ans: You have shown strong commitment. Investing Rs. 1 lakh monthly since 2019 is highly disciplined. Adding Rs. 1.8 lakh more monthly in 2024 further shows your aggressive mindset and future planning.

Let me assess your portfolio thoroughly, from all angles. I will explain every layer of your mutual fund selection and offer insights for improvements. Your portfolio has both strengths and gaps. Let’s examine it part by part.

 
 
Your Risk Profile and Time Horizon

 
 

You are 43. Retirement may still be 15+ years away. Time is on your side.

 
 

You have clearly defined yourself as an aggressive investor. That’s good.

 
 

You are not looking for short-term exits. That’s ideal for equity investments.

 
 

You are mentally strong for market ups and downs. Patience is your strength.

 
 
Your Monthly Commitment and Fund Spread

 
 

You invest Rs. 2.8 lakh per month. That’s a huge amount. Very few do this.

 
 

You are split across 16 funds. That’s on the higher side. Needs review.

 
 

Too many funds reduce focus. You don’t get full advantage from each fund.

 
 

There’s fund overlap. You’re holding multiple funds in similar categories.

 
 
Fund Category Allocation Overview

 
 

Let’s look at your fund categories. We will see where you are strong and where things are scattered.

 
 

Small Cap Funds – You hold 4 small cap funds. That’s too many.

 
 

Mid Cap Funds – You hold 3 mid cap funds. That’s slightly high.

 
 

Flexicap / Large & Mid Cap – You have 4 funds here. Needs cleanup.

 
 

Bluechip / Large Cap – Only 1 fund here. Slightly under-represented.

 
 

Thematic / Sectoral Funds – You have 4 funds here. That is risky.

 
 

Dynamic Asset Allocation – You have 1 fund here. That adds balance.

 
 
Your Portfolio Strengths

 
 

Let’s appreciate what’s working well in your portfolio.

 
 

You have shown long-term vision. Most investors can’t hold on patiently.

 
 

You have a good mix of mid, small and flexicap funds. Growth-oriented.

 
 

You have started SIP early and maintained consistency. That builds wealth.

 
 

Your fund choices include a few high-quality performers. That’s commendable.

 
 

You have added new funds in 2024. That shows adaptability and planning.

 
 
Areas That Need Immediate Attention

 
 

Now let’s look at areas which need a clean-up or some correction.

 
 

Too Many Funds: 16 is too many. Even 8 to 10 is enough. Reduce clutter.

 
 

Too Many Small Cap Funds: 4 small caps can add high risk and volatility.

 
 

Overlapping Categories: Some midcap and flexicap funds behave similarly.

 
 

Too Much Sector Exposure: Infrastructure, Commodities, Auto, Manufacturing – that’s high sector risk.

 
 

Unstable Funds: Some thematic funds do well in cycles. Not suitable for SIP always.

 
 

Missing Debt Allocation: Even aggressive investors need some debt buffer. None seen.

 
 
Suggested Adjustments to Your Portfolio

 
 

Let’s work on a 360-degree improvement plan. Keep it practical and action-oriented.

 
 

Reduce Fund Count: Bring it down to around 8-10 funds. Better tracking and performance.

 
 

Limit Small Cap Funds: Keep only 2 small cap funds. Choose based on past 5-year track.

 
 

Mid Cap Funds: Keep only 2 best-performing midcap funds. Avoid redundancy.

 
 

Flexicap or Large & Mid Cap: Keep 2 funds from this group. Review performance, not names.

 
 

Sector Funds: Choose only 1 or max 2. Prefer long-term stable sectors.

 
 

Add a Balanced Fund: Include 1 balanced advantage or dynamic allocation fund. That helps in market correction phases.

 
 

Review Every 6 Months: Don’t hold laggards. Evaluate every 6 months with your MFD with CFP credential.

 
 

Avoid Direct Plans: Stick to regular plans. You get advisory, service, and emotional coaching.

 
 

Direct funds seem cheaper, but long-term mistakes cost more. Regular funds through a qualified CFP help in discipline.

 
 
Understanding Sector and Thematic Funds

 
 

You hold infrastructure, commodities, auto, and manufacturing funds. These sectors are cyclical.

 
 

These can give sudden highs, but also long flat phases. SIP in sector funds may not suit everyone.

 
 

Keep exposure limited to 10-15% of portfolio. Don’t exceed this.

 
 

Sectoral funds need regular review. If the cycle turns, exit and shift to diversified funds.

 
 

Infrastructure and auto can be held longer term. But commodities and manufacturing are highly volatile.

 
 
Importance of Professional Guidance

 
 

You are handling Rs. 2.8 lakh monthly. That’s a large portfolio in the making.

 
 

A certified financial planner helps in making fund selection efficient.

 
 

They offer risk alignment, taxation insights, rebalancing strategy and emotional handholding.

 
 

Avoid trial and error. Stick with a long-term plan. Don’t get influenced by social media noise.

 
 

Emotional investing hurts performance. A CFP brings clarity and structure.

 
 
Asset Allocation for 43-Year-Old Aggressive Investor

 
 

Let’s look at a suggested structure for you.

 
 

Large Cap + Flexicap + Large & Mid Cap Funds: Around 40-45%

 
 

Mid Cap Funds: Around 25-30%

 
 

Small Cap Funds: Not more than 15%

 
 

Sectoral + Thematic Funds: Around 10%

 
 

Balanced / Hybrid Fund: 5-10% for cushioning market corrections

 
 

This brings balance, growth and flexibility.

 
 
Avoiding Common Pitfalls

 
 

You are already advanced in your investing. Still, let’s watch out for some key mistakes.

 
 

Don't Chase Past Returns: Every year’s winner won’t repeat. Look at long-term consistency.

 
 

Avoid Frequent Switching: Let SIPs run for 5-7 years to show full potential.

 
 

Don’t React to Market News: Volatility is natural. Stay calm. Don’t stop SIPs in correction.

 
 

Monitor Fund Manager Changes: If a top-performing fund loses its manager, review it closely.

 
 

Track Portfolio, Not Just Individual Funds: Overall performance matters, not one or two funds.

 
 
MF Taxation Update as per 2024 Rules

 
 

New tax rules are important. Let’s simplify them for you.

 
 

Equity MF LTCG: Above Rs. 1.25 lakh gain per year taxed at 12.5%

 
 

Equity MF STCG: Short-term capital gains taxed at 20%

 
 

Debt MFs: All gains taxed as per your income tax slab. No LTCG benefit now.

 
 

So it’s even more important to hold funds for 3-5 years minimum.

 
 
Finally

 
 

You have done the most important part – start early, invest regularly, and increase investment over time.

 
 

But now the next step is to simplify, consolidate and add structure.

 
 

Cut down fund count. Avoid theme overload. Maintain allocation. Stick to long term.

 
 

Have a goal-based approach with a certified financial planner. Stay calm in market corrections.

 
 

Your portfolio can create real wealth. Just stay disciplined and focused.

 
 

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8314 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 29, 2025

Money
Hello. should i continue investing in Hybrid equity funds or should i shift those funds to midcap and index funds??
Ans: You are currently investing in hybrid equity funds.
Now you're thinking of shifting to midcap or index funds.

Let’s analyse each of these based on your possible goals and situation.

First, Let’s Understand Hybrid Equity Funds
Hybrid equity funds balance equity and debt in one fund.

They offer stability from debt and growth from equity.

They are good if you want moderate returns with lower volatility.

Suitable if your goal is 3 to 5 years away or if you are conservative.

Gives a smoother ride during market ups and downs.

What Happens If You Move to Midcap Funds?
Midcap funds invest in medium-sized companies with high growth potential.

But midcap funds are very volatile in the short term.

Risk is much higher, though potential return is also higher.

If your goal is more than 7 years away, and you can handle ups and downs, only then consider midcap funds.

Don’t shift to midcaps just because of recent past returns.

Midcaps require strong patience and discipline during market corrections.

What About Index Funds?
Index funds are passive funds that copy the market index.

They do not try to beat the market returns. They only match it.

They look attractive due to low cost, but they come with no downside protection.

When market falls, index funds fall fully with the market.

No active manager is there to protect you or take advantage of opportunities.

Returns are limited to index performance. No extra gain possible.

In fact, when markets are sideways or falling, index funds underperform active funds.

Key Disadvantages of Index Funds (You Must Know)
No flexibility during market ups and downs.

Zero risk management by fund manager.

Index funds follow index blindly, even if companies in index are poor.

If market goes down 30%, index fund will also fall 30%.

You are on your own, with no expert adjusting portfolio.

Index funds underperform actively managed funds in India over long term, especially in mid and small caps.

Index investing may look attractive in theory, but in real-world, it is less flexible and more risky.

Why Staying in Hybrid Equity Funds May Be Better
You get a good balance of risk and reward.

Debt portion cushions fall during market crash.

Better suited for income generation, goal planning, and retirement strategy.

Actively managed hybrid funds give better flexibility and better returns in volatile markets.

Hybrid funds have performed better than index funds in falling markets.

If You Want to Grow More Aggressively
You can slowly start investing a small part into actively managed midcap funds.

Start with 10%-15% of your portfolio in midcap.

Keep rest in hybrid funds for stability.

Increase midcap exposure only if you are comfortable with the volatility.

Don’t move entire amount to midcap or index funds at once.

Don’t Invest in Direct Funds (Important Insight)
Direct funds may look like they give more returns.

But in reality, you miss professional guidance and ongoing review.

Investing without a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and MFD support leads to poor choices.

Many people choose wrong funds or wrong time to exit.

Regular plans with a good CFP and MFD help you stay disciplined and goal-focused.

Advice matters more than saving 0.5% cost in direct plans.

Final Insights
Hybrid funds give balanced growth and peace of mind.

Midcap funds are good, but only for long-term investors with high risk capacity.

Index funds look simple, but have no risk control and no potential to outperform.

Don’t shift completely from hybrid to index or midcap funds.

Stay in hybrid funds, and add midcap gradually under expert guidance.

Always invest through regular plans with support from a CFP-qualified MFD.

Ensure your portfolio is aligned with your goals, risk profile, and timeline.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP
Chief Financial Planner
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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