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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1494 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Aug 23, 2022

Anu Krishna is a mind coach and relationship expert.
The co-founder of Unfear Changemakers LLP, she has received her neuro linguistic programming training from National Federation of NeuroLinguistic Programming, USA, and her energy work specialisation from the Institute for Inner Studies, Manila.
She is an executive member of the Indian Association of Adolescent Health.... more
RM Question by RM on Aug 23, 2022Hindi
Relationship

Respected Anu Madam, Your advice will be of great importance and valuable to me.
I really appreciate your answers and I want to take your valuable guidance.
I sincerely request you to take time to go through lengthy mail. Please oblige and help.
Madam, I got married in 1995.
My wife though well-educated often gets into her parents' shoes and never found to be satisfied with me. Unlike me, she 
was from a well to do family.
Based on my education and job, I got married to her. Most of the time she used to spend time at her parents' place, 
say around 5 months in a year. Rest of the period also hardly we used to be together -- maximum 4 to 5 times a month.

In 1997, we were blessed with a daughter. In 1999 she had a miscarriage.
In 2002 I went to the USA, but could not sustain and came back in September 2002.
In April 2003, she had hernia surgery, wherein she was diagnosed as HIV positive.
When I got tested I was negative. I was told that during the 1999 abortion, there was a blood transfusion during which she must have got acquired the HIV.
We didn't reveal this to my family members. Our parents are aware of this dangerous health issue. But I used to suffer extremely bad in all respects.

We started living independently since 2003, and I used to take care of her in all respects.
We never had any conjugal relation since 2003 (I was 35 years old then).
Even before 2003 it was very minimal and formal.

Every now and then we used to fight during which she used to be very aggressive and nothing less than me in anyway.
As a woman she has zero tolerance level. The slightest of things would offend her.

However things kept going. In November 2015, her health got worse and irrespective of consulting doctors, it was not improving.
Her CD4 count (immunity level for healthy living) had gone down to dangerous levels of just 10%. Her liver got affected with water accumulation and she was diagnosed with TB.
At that time, by God’s grace, with great difficulty I found a doctor, who gave her a second life.
For 18 months, I helped her to get back to normal condition while I was dealing with financial and mental stress.
In 2021 during Covid also I saved her life.

In the absence of any satisfaction, happiness or love, I never neglected or ill-treated her. In fact I provided her a very comfortable life in all respects and behaved with her in a usual way.
In 2018, I sent my daughter to the US for MS as per her choice.
In 2019, I purchased a 3 bedroom flat as per my wife’s choice and consent and presently we are living in that.
I give her Rs 10,000 per month as her personal expenses apart from providing all other things.

During my wife’s treatment in 2015, I came across a divorced working woman whose father also died of HIV.
Slowly, she also understood my position, we exchanged views and became closer. ?
She was an extremely fine lady with lots and lots of love and affection.
She never expected any money or small material things from me.
I can say she is a very nice and good woman, whom any person will rarely come across.
I felt very happy with her. She also got very much attached to me because of my attitude and behaviour.
Of course I never told my wife or discussed this relationship. This
 woman is living separately with her grown up children about 30 km from my residence. But, we love each other so much and have a lot of affection for each other.
Sometimes, very occasionally, I used to speak to this woman. But I never knew that my wife was observing me.
In January 2022, my wife made a big issue out of this. She is suspecting each and every call and movement of mine and looking at me very cheaply, which I am unable to tolerate.

I did so much for her and put my life at stake to bring her back to normal life from a dangerous disease. She is just not able to understand me.
If she doesn't understand my necessities, 
how can I be happy?
Madam, now my concern is:
1. In 2015 after second woman came in my life and after observing her for about 7 years, I found her very nice, independent, amicable, tolerable, Good behaviour, hard-working and good looking lady. We never want to lose each other, and we will be mutual support to each other in future circumstances. I am 55 and she is 45. My wife is 50.
2. Because of my wife’s nagging, I cannot sacrifice the second woman. I am very much committed to her and want to support her in all respects for the rest of my life. She is the only person who understands me apart from my mother.
3. At my house, I am being treated like a paying guest by my wife. Morning tiffin and night dinner she will cook for me. There is nothing more. Days are going very heavily. Only on need basis, we will talk. There is no affection or love.
4. Being in a responsible position I feel very stressed, depressed and I am not able to execute my duties. I have five years of service left to me and I am unable to understand how to lead the life later, in case my wife survives.
5. I have not done any injustice or ill-treated my wife but in case something happens to her, what will happen to me? I have not done anything out of lust. But as a man, I too will have some feelings towards a woman. But my wife never understood this basic concept and got adjusted.
Neither she will provide me any love (since 2003) nor she will tolerate any woman in my life. Though I don’t give her any pain, I feel this is unfair and sadist.
Because of the conditions prevailing around me and as a man, I was bound to do the above. Under these circumstances please advise me what should I do, thinking down the line after 5 years of my retirement?
Your advice will be a great help to me. Kindly oblige to address the above.

Ans:

Dear RM,

Thank you for being a caring husband and being by your wife’s side no matter what.

The dilemma that you face is something that actually needs a solution from you and not anyone else.

Try describing this to anyone and they might play moral police, advice you to do the right thing, forget the other woman etc.

What is it that you want?

It seems to me like you have stuck by your wife solely out of duty and care and you want to continue to do so.

In that case, how will your wife understand the new connection with the other woman?

How will the other woman accept who you are currently?

It is really difficult to tread on two different paths and to expect either is to understand is equally a difficult ask.

The least you can do is, keep it all transparent (it might sound impossible), talk to your wife to reassure her that your friendship with the other woman is in not in anyway going to undermine her position in your life.

If this does not seem feasible, I can’t see any ecological (something that aligns to your values) way to deal with the situation.

You might not be able to pursue a relationship under the wraps with your wife knowing about it and it is not fair to either of the women.

So, choose wisely and do what seems right keeping in mind that you cannot easily live two lives separately and expect to fulfil both at the same time.

All the best!

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Love Guru

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Relationships Expert - Answered on Jan 13, 2022

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Dear Love Guru, My wife and I are in an arranged marriage since around 15 years and there is nothing that we celebrate about our relationship, except kids which are the only reason for our existing relations. I am working abroad and have visits for a month on vacation after every couple of months. After marriage, I noticed my wife’s flirting behaviour with strange men (to seduce) during many occasions but initially ignored it. However, I found it frustrating when I felt her to be habitual flirter. I then spoke to her, which was after around 2.5 years of our marriage, and she denied the matter. Soon noticing such perpetual habits about her, we went on for non-talking terms some time and then a storm broke out in our house. My parents and her parents supported her, since I couldn’t prove any of her behaviour. She has been lying since her behaviour was noticed and even after that, but my love for her and my child (at that time) made me feel that probably that I need to avoid any suspicious behaviour. Such storm was repeated even recently few years earlier. I had thought my idea of a second child would improve our relations, but it hasn’t helped. I could still notice her flirting behaviour with strangers and even with known personnel including my relatives. I even believe her to be in relationship with one of my cousins, based on my observations of their behaviour during our every meet, which I cannot speak of due to my previous experience and which will otherwise definitely terminate our relations. Actually, we are never on good terms these days whenever I visit home and mostly converse only if required. We are also not good in bed and I have also been feeling a low erectile in bed these days. These moments have affected me psychologically and I feel very negative about our relationship. My family remains my priority and I have been trying to see that we all are all happy as a family. I have even sacrificed my own family time for better earnings so that my family can get all the best in life. She takes good care of the children and manages the house nicely. I also ensure that we, as a family, go out on long journeys for travel and my children are everything for me. I have trying to cope up with all this by focusing on work and socialising with friends to the best extent possible. However, her behaviour (in spite of my presence) makes me feel negative. How can I deal with the matter since any re-attempt on my part to speak on the same matter, even if cordially, with my wife will create another storm like earlier? I wish to sort out the differences and need your advice. Should we meet a counsellor separately on this to sort out the matter? Keep me anonymous and respect my privacy.
Ans:

You’ve been sweeping the same issues your marriage has faced from the very beginning under the carpet for 15 years. Why?

And instead of addressing the issues, you decided to go ahead and have a second child?

Having a child is a joy in itself, but it is never the solution to marital woes; in fact, in most cases it only exacerbates the problem.

From everything you’ve told me, you seem to come across as an insecure husband.

I’m not saying that what you’ve told me is untrue, but you keep suspecting your wife of flirting with random men and have no proof of it.

Both sides of the family support her and let me tell you, unless she is a master of deception, no one can conceal their true nature so well from everyone else for the better part of two decades.

Maybe what you construe as flirting is simply her being friendly? Maybe you’re just not comfortable with the manner in which she interacts with other men?

Have you ever managed to prove her inappropriate relations? And when you accuse her, she blows up at you... a guilty party would not react in so volatile a manner.

I do think marital counselling is in order. And yes, maybe separately at first and then together.

Contact a good therapist and do it sooner rather than later... 15 years has been long enough!

 

..Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1494 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 21, 2023

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 15, 2023Hindi
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Relationship
Hello, I have been married from 15 yrs. I have a 9 yrs old son with me. In oct 21 my wife (age 38) started making REELS on insta of the facial acting. She got involved and told me that she is just doing for followers and like. People used to comment good and bad which i didnt like. She was trying to make young guy friends. In april 2022 she had an affair with a 22-year-old boy who was not even financial stable. I could she changes in her every day. In June 2022 I caught her and she confess that she did affair and also done physical relationship. I had unconditionally loved her all these years and didn’t wanted to let her go. Also, didn’t wanted to hurt my son by taking a divorce. That guy refused to keep my son and their relation broke, but my wife still loved him and missed him. Few months she was in depression and I took her upmost care and swallowed what she did. I just told her that please come back to our life as you were before but she was not getting back. There used to be few quarrels, she was just staying alone within herself and I never felt that love which she used to give me. Later in feb23 there was a marriage at her family and I agree to go with her so she may get that feel during our times and she promised me to enjoy the marriage and make love with me. But she was happy with her relative and didn’t even bother to make that love and affection with me. from that time, I used to get angry and fight with her. I went into depression. In May 2023 she was getting worst and one day fight increased and I asked her to leave my house which I wasn’t intentionally wanted to. She left and went missing 24 yrs and then called from her mom mobile who was in her village, since she didn’t come back home and from last two month, she has been asking me money for herself and says it’s her rights. She doesn’t bother for my son and just show that she loves him. She works and stay with woman from 6 months and I’m looking after my son all alone. I told her u can work but just come home and make things better for my son. Her conditions is to give money security (money) then only she will return. All my family says she is just behind money and doesn’t care what I and my son is going through. She is not guilt for what she did. 15 yrs of marriage has been ruin and now she has no shame at all. She talks rudely if i dont send her money and now I refused sending her. Please advice what do I do now.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
You seem to have done a lot to try and get her back. What can you do if she doesn't want to acknowledge your efforts or appreciate what family life is! One would imagine that a child in the equation may bring about a change in heart but that doesn't seem to be the case here at this moment.
Your family members are right in their mind about the way that see your wife as they have been observing how this has impacted you and your son.
Either you wait for her to come to her senses OR simply learn to live life without her. If the outside world of social media is what seems to satisfy her, no matter what you do, she will be dissatisfied and unhappy. This only means that she has to learn and appreciate what she has with you and your son.
It is also possible that she has been disinterested in the marriage for a while now and has been seeking approval and validation from people on social media. Even if this is the case, being angry with you is understandable BUT what about her own child? What makes her not want to deal with that reality? If you need an answer to this, simply WAIT and WATCH without begging her to come back...That will give you an idea as to where her mind is and then decide on the future course...

All the best!

..Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1494 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jun 03, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 26, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
Hi, I married 1 year ago my wife told me she was forced to do a marriage against her concern and she didn't want the marriage life and wanted to live as strangers, also she refused to take wife responsibilities at home i have waited trusting she would change but she never changed. She is alone daughter to her parents borned after 16 years to their parents and she used to live outside around 17 year for her studies. After marriage whenever her parents come she used to ignore me, also she work in private sector and not share even single rupee to home. However all house hold work i do being boy, also she is not at all interested in intercource as well. After marriage 2 week she stayed in PG stating that my close friend will go to native allow me to spend time with her reast all i will be with you like. I agreed. Later 6 Month she used to give reasons for intercource i got periods, rashes, not feeling good, tiered, no mood, etc this happen till 6 month. After this we had 4 times in 2 month with protection that too just for 1 or 2 min as she mentioned lot of pain, after that she started avoiding, since i was not fulfilled by sex desire i started making extra marital affairs in facebook and turned to whatsapp only text, one fine day she saw all msgs i did with extra marital affair and she took photos of that and went to PG without informing any one. Later both families elder sat and asked she used to show the msgs that i did with extra marital affairs and she wanted seperate now from me. Though i accepted the extra marital affairs only interms of msgs and since you not willing to do sex i choose this way i mentioned. But she dont like to come back now. Her father took 2 month of time that he will change her mind set but i dont think she can. As her mother is also not good women, suporting her daughter and making such big issues and she also not interested in this marriage itself.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Sometimes people are just not ready for marriage and here your wife certainly came along with a huge baggage of unresolved issues behind her.
Marriage requires both partners to be responsible not just towards one another but take an active interest in their roles. This calls for maturity from both partners here.
Now, this was never a possibility with your spouse as she felt the marriage was a forced one. That is enough to destroy any chances of the marriage falling in place. You are also in a soup now that she has found her 'proof' that gives her a ticket out of this marriage.
The question here is: Do you want this marriage? If YES, then you will have to start down the part of proving your innocence and what led to what and how and when...If NO, then since your spouse has found her ticket to freedom, the only thing you might have to do is clearly state and not explain anything as to how things went downhill right from the beginning. Her parents may believe you or not, but that's what your decision needs. They may try to malign you in the family, just stick to your version of what happened and move on.
So, you are at that point where you need to make a decision. What is it going to be?

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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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |525 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 01, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 29, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
We had an Arranged Marriage, more than 3 years ago & planning to have Children since a Year. But my Wife had been Reluctant about the plan to get Pregnant. She was only into it Half-Heartedly, as she's also getting older. I never forced her & always tried to make her feel comfortable. But I was also worried about having Children, hence I felt that we might need to get ourselves Checked-up Medically for any issues in Fertility in either of us. As per my Medical Report, there was no issue with my Fertility. But my Wife was reluctant to get Tested. She agreed after a lot of Persuasion. When she was Examined by the Gynecologist, her Report Shocked me. My Wife already had an Abortion (which wasn't done well) & conceiving again would be very Difficult & Risky. When I confronted my Wife, she broke down & confessed everything. Apparently, she had been Sexually Active in a Relationship with her Boyfriend, while in College & got Pregnant, while still in her Teenage. Her cowardly Boyfriend had ditched her & her Parents got her Abortion done through some illegitimate means (as her age was a few months short of 18, by then). The Abortion had scarred her Physically, Mentally & Emotionally & hence conceiving again wouldn't be easy for her. But all this had been hidden from me, until then. Before committing for Marriage, she lied to me that she was Virgin (as I was also Virgin & asked for it, specifically). I had blindly Trusted her then, but now I feel that I have been Cheated by her entire Family. I sympathize with my Wife for all that she'd been through, at such an immature age, hence, I controlled myself from showing any of my Anger/Frustration on her. But I still feel that I had been cheated into this Marriage & my Relationship with her may never be the same again. I am thinking of Divorcing my Wife, amicably & Marry another Woman who's Fertile as well as Honest. Please advise me whether that would be the best approach or is there any other better suggestion, which you can give me, alternatively?
Ans: Your wife's past, though painful and hidden, appears to stem from decisions made at a young and vulnerable time in her life. Her secrecy was likely rooted in fear—of judgment, rejection, or being misunderstood. This doesn’t excuse the dishonesty, but it can offer insight into why she made the choices she did. Her confession, while delayed, shows vulnerability and trust in sharing something so deeply personal and painful. It also highlights her struggle to come to terms with her past and the scars it left, both physically and emotionally.

Divorce is a life-altering decision that should not be taken lightly, especially when you have invested years into this relationship. Before making such a decision, consider what truly matters to you in a partner and a marriage. Ask yourself whether this betrayal is something you believe you could work through with time, communication, and potentially professional guidance. Couples therapy could provide a safe space to explore these feelings, address the breach of trust, and determine whether rebuilding is possible.

It’s also worth reflecting on whether your decision is primarily influenced by her inability to conceive easily or by the breach of trust. Fertility challenges can be deeply emotional, but they are not insurmountable. Many couples facing similar issues have found joy through alternative paths to parenthood, such as medical interventions, surrogacy, or adoption. The honesty aspect, however, might require a deeper exploration of whether you can rebuild trust and feel secure in the relationship moving forward.

If you ultimately decide that this relationship is no longer viable for you, it’s important to approach the decision with empathy and respect. An amicable separation, grounded in a shared understanding of your reasons, can be a way to honor the time and emotions both of you have invested in this marriage.

Conversely, if there is still love and a willingness to navigate these challenges together, it may be possible to transform this crisis into an opportunity for deeper connection, understanding, and growth. Healing from this situation will require effort from both sides—honest communication, emotional openness, and a shared commitment to moving forward.

Ultimately, the best path is the one aligned with your values, emotional well-being, and long-term vision for your life.

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Latest Questions
Moneywize

Moneywize   |181 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 07, 2025Hindi
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I’m 42, working in the IT sector with an annual salary of ₹30 lakhs. My spouse also works, earning ₹15 lakhs a year, and we have two young children in primary school. We bought a house five years ago with a ₹90 lakh mortgage, and our EMI is ₹75,000 per month. We’ve been investing ₹30,000 monthly in mutual fund SIPs across large-cap, mid-cap, and ELSS funds. Additionally, I contribute ₹1.5 lakh annually to my PPF and have ₹10 lakhs in a fixed deposit. My goal is to retire by 55, but I’m unsure whether I should divert extra funds to prepay the home loan or continue aggressive investments to build a larger retirement corpus. I’m concerned about being asset-rich but cash-poor. What’s the best strategy to ensure financial freedom while managing debt?
Ans: You are in a strong financial position with a high dual income, ongoing investments, and a clear retirement goal at 55. The key challenge is balancing home loan repayment vs aggressive investments to ensure liquidity and long-term wealth growth. Here’s a structured approach:
1. Key Financial Priorities
• Retiring by 55 while maintaining financial security
• Managing the Rs 90 lakh home loan efficiently without being cash-strapped
• Ensuring liquidity for short-term needs
• Building a strong retirement corpus to sustain post-retirement expenses
2. Home Loan vs Investing -- What’s Optimal?
Your home loan EMI is Rs 75,000 per month, which is 30% of your combined take-home salary. This is manageable, but since your goal is early retirement, reducing debt before 55 is important.
• Option 1: Prepay the Home Loan Aggressively
o Prepaying reduces interest costs and provides peace of mind
o Assuming an 8% loan interest rate, prepaying Rs 10 lakh reduces the EMI burden or tenure significantly
o However, as per the old tax regime home loan interest provides a tax benefit under Section 24(b) (Rs 2 lakh deduction on interest)
• Option 2: Continue Investing Aggressively
o Historical equity returns (~12-15% in long-term equity funds) outpace home loan rates (~8%)
o Investing extra funds in mutual funds, especially in mid-cap and flexi-cap funds, could yield higher wealth
o Liquidity remains strong, unlike in home prepayments where money gets locked into an illiquid asset
Balanced Approach:
• Prepay a portion (Rs 10-15 lakh over the next 2-3 years) while ensuring you keep liquidity
• Continue investing Rs 30,000 SIPs but consider increasing it as your salary grows
• Avoid paying off the loan entirely too quickly, as investments can grow at a higher rate than your loan interest
3. Optimised Investment Plan
To retire by 55, you need a corpus that generates Rs 1.5-2 lakh per month post-retirement. Assuming you need Rs 4-5 crore by 55, here’s a plan:
• Equity SIPs: Increase to Rs 50,000/month gradually over the next 2-3 years
o Large-cap index funds (Nifty 50, Sensex): Rs 15,000
o Mid-cap funds: Rs 15,000
o Flexi-cap funds: Rs 10,000
o ELSS (for tax saving): Rs 10,000
• PPF: Continue investing Rs 1.5 lakh annually for risk-free, tax-free returns
• Fixed Deposit: Keep Rs 10 lakh as emergency corpus (or move some to liquid/debt funds for better returns)
4. Debt-Free by 55 Strategy
• Make lump sum prepayments of Rs 5-7 lakh every 2-3 years while maintaining cash flow
• Target closing the loan by 50 instead of aggressively paying it off now
• Ensure Rs 1.5-2 crore in investments by 50, so your retirement fund remains intact
5. Action Plan
• Increase SIPs from Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000 per month gradually
• Prepay Rs 5-7 lakh every 2-3 years to reduce loan burden without sacrificing liquidity
• Keep Rs 10 lakh in fixed deposits or move to liquid funds for emergencies
• Maximise tax benefits through PPF, ELSS, and home loan deductions
This balanced strategy ensures wealth growth, manageable debt, and liquidity, helping you retire comfortably at 55 without being asset-rich but cash-poor.

...Read more

Moneywize

Moneywize   |181 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 07, 2025Hindi
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Money
Sir I am 60 and I plan to retire in six months after a 35-year career in the public sector. I’ll receive a monthly pension of ₹50,000, but I also have a corpus of ₹1.2 crore from my provident fund, gratuity, and fixed deposits. I’ve historically preferred conservative investments and currently hold ₹40 lakhs in FDs, ₹20 lakhs in senior citizen savings schemes (SCSS), and ₹10 lakhs in tax-free bonds. I’m concerned about inflation eroding my returns over time. My spouse and I have monthly expenses of ₹40,000, but we want to ensure our savings last 25+ years while offering some growth. Should I explore balanced mutual funds, annuities, or SWPs from debt funds to balance safety and growth? What percentage of my corpus should remain in fixed income?
Ans: You have built a solid retirement corpus and a stable pension income, but considering inflation and longevity, it’s wise to balance safety with moderate growth. Here’s a structured approach:
1. Core Strategy: Balancing Stability & Growth
Your primary goals are:
• Capital Preservation
• Inflation Protection
• Regular Income
Since you have Rs 50,000 in pension and Rs 40,000 in monthly expenses, your pension alone covers your basic needs. Your investments should focus on sustaining wealth and managing inflation.
2. Portfolio Allocation (Safety vs. Growth)
Given your risk-averse nature, a 70:30 allocation between fixed income and equity could work well:
• 70% in Fixed Income (Rs 84 lakh) for Stability
o Fixed Deposits (FDs) → Rs 30 lakh (existing Rs 40 lakh can be reduced to 30 for liquidity)
o Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) → Rs 20 lakh (already invested, good for 5 years at 8.2% interest)
o Tax-Free Bonds → Rs 10 lakh (keep as is, safe & predictable)
o Debt Mutual Funds (SWP) → Rs 24 lakh
? Invest Rs 24 lakh in a corporate bond or dynamic bond fund
? Start Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) of Rs 15,000–Rs 20,000 monthly (to fight inflation)
• 30% in Growth Assets (Rs 36 lakh) for Inflation Hedge
o Balanced Advantage Funds (Rs 12 lakh): These funds dynamically manage equity and debt, reducing risk.
o Large-Cap or Index Funds (Rs 12 lakh): Nifty 50 or Sensex funds for steady, long-term growth.
o Dividend-Yield Mutual Funds (Rs 6 lakh): Provide stable returns.
o Gold (Rs 6 lakh): Can be in sovereign gold bonds (SGBs) or gold ETFs for inflation protection.
3. Income Strategy: SWP + Interest
Your monthly pension of Rs 50,000 is enough for now, but you may need extra income later. Use:
• SCSS interest (Rs 16,000/month) + Tax-Free Bond Interest (~Rs 3,000/month)
• SWP from debt mutual funds (Rs 15,000/month from Rs 24 lakh in debt funds)
• FD interest (if needed, Rs 30 lakh in FDs can provide Rs 12,000–Rs 15,000/month)
This way, your pension covers essentials, and investments handle inflation without eroding principal.
4. Should You Consider Annuities?
• Annuities (like LIC Jeevan Akshay VII or HDFC Life Immediate Annuity) provide lifelong income but lock in money permanently.
• Since you already have a pension, you don’t need an annuity right now. But if you want to secure future cash flow, consider putting Rs 10-Rs 15 lakh in an annuity after age 70.
5. Action Plan for the Next 6 Months
• Restructure FDs: Keep Rs 30 lakh instead of Rs 40 lakh for better liquidity.
• Invest Rs 24 lakh in Debt Funds for SWP: Choose corporate bond or dynamic bond funds.
• Allocate Rs 36 lakh in Balanced/Equity Funds: Focus on inflation protection.
• Continue SCSS & Bonds: Good for stable income.
• Review Annuitization at 70: Not needed now, but worth considering later.

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Moneywize

Moneywize   |181 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 07, 2025Hindi
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Money
Dear experts, I’m 50 now and I want to retire by the age of 60. I have saved ₹70 lakhs in mutual funds (split across equity and hybrid funds), ₹15 lakhs in PPF, and ₹10 lakhs in NPS. While I’m focused on building my retirement corpus, healthcare costs worry me. Both my parents had chronic illnesses that required expensive long-term care, and healthcare inflation is a significant concern. I currently have a ₹10 lakh health insurance policy through my employer, but I’m unsure if this will suffice post-retirement. Should I consider a super top-up plan or invest in health-focused mutual funds? Are there health plans designed specifically for retirees? How can I ensure my retirement savings are protected from unexpected medical expenses?
Ans: You're taking a prudent approach by planning for healthcare costs in retirement. Given your concerns, here’s how you can protect your retirement savings from unexpected medical expenses:
1. Enhance Your Health Insurance Coverage
Since your employer-provided Rs 10 lakh health insurance will likely end when you retire, it's crucial to secure independent coverage. Consider the following:
• Super Top-up Plan: A cost-effective way to increase your coverage. For example, you can take a Rs 25-Rs 50 lakh super top-up plan with a Rs 5-Rs 10 lakh deductible.
• Standalone Family Floater or Individual Health Insurance: Purchase a comprehensive plan for at least Rs 20-Rs 30 lakh.
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance: Some insurers offer specific plans for retirees, but these often come with higher premiums and limitations. It's better to buy a policy before you turn 55.
2. Create a Medical Emergency Fund
Set aside Rs 10-Rs 15 lakh in a liquid or ultra-short-duration mutual fund for unforeseen medical costs not covered by insurance.
3. Invest in a Health-Focused Mutual Fund?
Rather than investing specifically in a health-focused mutual fund (which is sector-specific and volatile), focus on:
• Multi-asset funds or balanced advantage funds that provide stability.
• Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) for a secure income stream post-retirement.
• Debt mutual funds or fixed deposits for liquidity.
4. Long-Term Care Planning
• Consider critical illness insurance (covers conditions like cancer, stroke, and heart disease) as a lump sum benefit.
• Evaluate home healthcare plans that cover domiciliary hospitalization and elder care services.
Action Plan for the Next 10 Years
1. Buy a comprehensive health insurance policy (Rs 20-Rs 30 lakh) + a super top-up now.
2. Build a dedicated healthcare fund (Rs 10-Rs 15 lakh in safe instruments).
3. Diversify retirement savings—increase SIPs if possible and allocate some funds to low-risk options like SCSS or debt funds.
4. Consider critical illness insurance before you turn 55.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7915 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 08, 2025Hindi
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7915 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 08, 2025Hindi
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Money
Dear Sir, At present, I have Rs. 75,00,000/- in SB account. Can I earn Rs. 60,000/- per month through SWP, if I invest this amount in mutual funds.
Ans: You want to generate Rs. 60,000 per month from Rs. 75 lakh. This means you need Rs. 7.2 lakh per year.

The biggest challenge is ensuring the corpus lasts long. If the withdrawals exceed the growth rate, the money will deplete faster.

A well-planned Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) must balance growth, risk, and longevity.

Key Factors to Consider Before Investing

Inflation Impact

Expenses will rise over time.
A higher withdrawal rate today can lead to shortfall later.
Your plan should account for increasing withdrawals in the future.
Investment Risk

Mutual funds carry market risk.
Equity funds may give higher returns but fluctuate.
Debt funds are stable but may not beat inflation.
A mix of both is better.
Tax Efficiency

SWP from equity funds after one year has lower tax impact.
LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
Debt fund SWP is taxed as per your income slab.
Tax-efficient withdrawals increase corpus sustainability.
Longevity of Corpus

If your investments grow at 10% and you withdraw at 9%, funds may last long.
If growth is 8% but withdrawals are 12%, corpus may deplete soon.
A sustainable withdrawal rate is key.
Can Rs. 75 Lakh Sustain Rs. 60,000 Monthly?

If Growth is Low (6-8%)

The corpus may last for 12-15 years.
This may not be enough for long-term needs.
If Growth is Moderate (10-12%)

The corpus may last over 20 years.
A balanced approach is needed.
If Growth is High (Above 12%)

Higher returns can extend corpus life.
But market fluctuations will impact withdrawals.
Better Approach to Ensure Sustainability

Start with a Lower SWP Initially

Instead of Rs. 60,000, start with Rs. 45,000-50,000.
This gives the corpus time to grow.
Rebalance Annually

Review fund performance.
Adjust withdrawals based on market conditions.
Mix of Equity and Debt

Keep 60% in equity for growth.
Keep 40% in debt for stability.
Keep a Buffer in Liquid Funds

Maintain 6-12 months of expenses in liquid funds.
This helps avoid withdrawing in a market downturn.
Tax-Efficient Withdrawals

Use long-term capital gains benefits.
Avoid unnecessary tax outflow.
Alternative Strategies for Income Stability

Dividend Option in Mutual Funds

Some funds provide regular dividends.
But dividends depend on market performance.
Part-time or Passive Income Sources

Rental income, freelancing, or part-time work can reduce withdrawal pressure.
This helps corpus last longer.
Final Insights

Withdrawing Rs. 60,000 per month is possible but may reduce corpus life.
A balanced strategy is needed to ensure long-term sustainability.
Reducing withdrawal amount initially will help.
Regular reviews and rebalancing are important.
A mix of equity and debt ensures growth and stability.
Keeping a liquidity buffer helps during market corrections.
With the right approach, you can generate monthly income while protecting your capital.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7915 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 06, 2025Hindi
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Money
I want to retire this year. I am 41. My current corpus 1.2 crore MF, 30 lakh in PF. We live with parents in our own house in Bangalore valued at Rs 1.5 crore. I have a home loan EMI of 35000 that will end in 2032. Monthly expenses 35-40k. Mu wife takes home tuitions and earns Rs 25,000 per month.
Ans: Retiring at 41 is a bold decision. You have built a decent corpus. But early retirement requires careful planning. Let’s analyse your financial situation and create a sustainable plan.

Current Financial Position
Mutual Funds: Rs 1.2 crore
Provident Fund: Rs 30 lakh
Total Corpus: Rs 1.5 crore
Home Loan EMI: Rs 35,000 per month (ending in 2032)
Monthly Expenses: Rs 35,000 to Rs 40,000
Wife’s Income: Rs 25,000 per month
House Value: Rs 1.5 crore (not considered for expenses)
You have a strong foundation. But your corpus must last for decades. Let’s optimise your investments for steady income and growth.

Key Challenges in Early Retirement
Long Retirement Period: You need funds for 40+ years.
Inflation Risk: Expenses will rise every year.
Home Loan: EMI will continue for 8 more years.
Market Volatility: Equity investments will fluctuate.
Medical Expenses: Health costs will increase with age.
A structured approach will help you retire securely.

Managing Monthly Expenses
Your expenses: Rs 35,000 to Rs 40,000 per month.
Wife’s tuition income: Rs 25,000 per month.
Shortfall: Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000 per month.
Your investments must cover this shortfall and future expenses.

Investment Strategy for Sustainable Income
Your portfolio must balance growth and stability.

Equity Mutual Funds (40-50%)

These will provide long-term growth.
Withdraw only when needed.
Keep a mix of large-cap, flexi-cap, and mid-cap funds.
Debt Mutual Funds (30-40%)

These will provide stability and regular income.
Choose short-duration or corporate bond funds.
Withdraw from this segment first before selling equity.
Fixed Deposits & Bonds (10-20%)

Invest in FDs or government bonds for emergencies.
Avoid locking all funds in long-term deposits.
Emergency Fund (Rs 5-7 lakh)

Keep 12-18 months of expenses in a liquid fund.
This ensures you don’t sell investments during market crashes.
This strategy ensures growth, liquidity, and stability.

Handling Your Home Loan
EMI is Rs 35,000 per month till 2032.
Wife’s income covers most of it.
Instead of full prepayment, make partial prepayments.
Use surplus funds or bonuses to reduce interest.
This will free up cash flow for future needs.
Avoid using all your corpus to close the loan. Investments will generate higher returns.

Medical Insurance & Health Planning
Buy a family floater health insurance of Rs 15-20 lakh.
Ensure it includes critical illness coverage.
Consider a super top-up plan for added coverage.
Keep Rs 5 lakh in a separate medical emergency fund.
Medical costs can drain savings. A strong health cover is essential.

Tax Planning for Retired Life
Mutual fund withdrawals attract capital gains tax.
Equity LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
Debt mutual fund withdrawals are taxed as per your income slab.
Use systematic withdrawals to manage tax efficiently.
Utilise tax-free PPF withdrawals after maturity.
A tax-efficient withdrawal strategy will help maximise savings.

Income Generation During Retirement
Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) from Mutual Funds

Set up SWP from debt mutual funds for regular income.
Withdraw from equity only when markets are high.
Part-Time Work Opportunities

Your wife earns Rs 25,000 from tuition.
Consider online consulting or freelance projects.
Even Rs 10,000 extra per month can reduce portfolio withdrawals.
A small active income will make your corpus last longer.

Inflation-Proofing Your Future
Expenses will double in 15-18 years.
Keep 40-50% of your portfolio in equity for long-term growth.
Review your portfolio every year and rebalance.
Adjust withdrawals based on market conditions.
Long-term sustainability is key for early retirees.

Final Insights
Your corpus is decent, but early retirement needs discipline.
Don’t use all savings to close the home loan.
Invest in a balanced mix of equity, debt, and fixed-income assets.
Plan systematic withdrawals to manage cash flow and taxes.
Health insurance and emergency funds are essential.
Keep some part-time income to reduce financial pressure.
Revisit your financial plan every year.
A well-structured plan will help you retire peacefully at 41.

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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