Sania Mirza's sister Anam had to ask friends many times to pay her for coffee bill. But it is part of her master plan to control expenses

Time of India

3 days ago

Turning Off UPI to Tune Into Finances
Life Beyond Digital Payments
Finding Passion in New Arenas
Anam Mirza, known both as a fashion entrepreneur and the younger sister of tennis icon Sania Mirza, recently opened up about a small yet powerful financial change she made in her life. Through her Instagram series titled Little Changes, Big Impact, she revealed how stepping away from a common digital convenience helped her manage her expenses more consciously.In one of the latest episodes, Anam shared that she had completely stopped using UPI (Unified Payments Interface) services. She deleted Google Pay from her phone and decided to take a break from scanning QR codes for payments. At first glance, it may seem like a minor adjustment, but the impact it had on her daily routine and spending habits was significant.By removing the instant accessibility of UPI apps, Anam found herself pausing before every purchase. She could no longer impulsively buy a cup of coffee or casually pay for small items with just a tap. This made her more mindful about every rupee spent. The lack of quick digital transactions forced her to think through each decision, giving her a clearer understanding of how her money was being used. What started as a challenge gradually became a routine that reshaped her approach to budgeting.Initially, the transition wasn't smooth. Anam admitted she had moments where she had to borrow from friends, especially for little treats like coffee, since she was no longer carrying out instant payments. However, with time and consistency, this financial detox began to feel natural. Instead of feeling restricted, she began experiencing a sense of freedom—freedom from impulsive decisions and untracked spending.While Anam is best known for her fashion ventures and public presence, her personal life is equally rooted in rich traditions and strong relationships. In December 2019, she married Mohammad Asaduddin, son of cricket legend Mohammad Azharuddin. Their union was celebrated with a traditional Hyderabadi nikaah ceremony. What makes their love story more heartwarming is the deep-rooted connection between their families, built over years of camaraderie and shared memories.Hyderabad, the city both call home, is more than just a location—it's a symbol of their intertwined histories and deep affection. It has played a pivotal role in shaping their lives, from childhood friendships to married life, making it a central part of their narrative.Even though tennis is Sania's domain, Anam has carved out her own space in the sports world. She recently collaborated with Global Sports to promote the Dubai Pickleball Open. Though she doesn't claim athletic prowess like her sister, Anam has found a new appreciation for the sport. Her willingness to explore new interests while managing her professional ventures showcases her versatility and willingness to evolve—both personally and professionally.Through small lifestyle tweaks like quitting UPI, Anam proves that sometimes, the simplest changes can have the biggest impact.