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Economic Times
09-07-2025
- Business
- Economic Times
Want to look rich? Or be truly rich? CA shares how a middleclass man built Rs 25 crore portfolio silently
Synopsis Nitin Kaushik's viral X post highlights the difference between perceived and actual wealth. He contrasts those who flaunt luxury items with those who quietly build assets through strategic investments. True wealth, he argues, lies not in outward appearances but in owning assets that appreciate over time, leading to financial freedom and peace of mind. CA points out the stark difference between looking rich and actually being rich. (Pic credit- istock. Image used for representative purpose only) In a world obsessed with luxury cars, designer labels, and Instagram-perfect lifestyles, it's easy to mistake flash for fortune. But Chartered Accountant Nitin Kaushik recently took to X (formerly Twitter) to deliver a powerful reminder that real wealth often looks nothing like what social media shows us. His post went viral for cutting through the illusion that high-end consumption equals financial success, and it hit home for drew a striking comparison: One person with a Rs 25 crore portfolio drives a modest Rs 10 lakh car. Another, with just Rs 1.7 crore in total assets, flaunts a brand-new luxury vehicle. The difference? One is quietly building wealth through solid investments. The other is burning it to keep up appearances. Rich isn't loud — it's strategic. Kaushik breaks it down simply: True wealth isn't about what you wear, drive, or post. It's about what you own — the kind of assets that grow while you sleep. He labels two financial archetypes-Person A: Low on lifestyle expenses, high on equity, real estate, and the power of B: High EMIs, low savings, always chasing status and approval. One is financially free. The other is financially fragile. Using the example of a car — a classic symbol of success — Kaushik points out the brutal truth: cars depreciate. The moment you drive them out of the showroom, they start losing value. On the other hand, assets like stocks, mutual funds, rental properties, and land don't just retain their worth — they multiply it over time. — Finance_Bareek (@Finance_Bareek) Perhaps the biggest takeaway from Kaushik's post is that the truly wealthy don't feel the need to look rich. They blend in, quietly owning freedom, time, and peace of mind. Financial freedom, as he puts it, isn't found in a luxury showroom — it's built with discipline, patience, and smart investments. His final message is clear: If you want to look rich, buy a luxury car. If you want to be rich, buy time, freedom, and compounding.A user reflected on the fleeting nature of life, reminding others that it's important to maintain balance—many people accumulate assets worth ₹25 crore or more, only to eventually pass away owning nothing more than a ₹10 lakh car. Their message was clear: enjoy life while you can, and live in alignment with your age. In response, Nitin simply emphasised the importance of balance. Another user raised a question: what's the point of accumulating wealth if it's never spent? To that, Nitin offered a deeper perspective—explaining that the true value of money lies not in spending it, but in the freedom it brings. Not just financial freedom, but the ability to live without stress. According to him, money enables peaceful sleep, new adventures, travel, and hobbies. Freedom, he argued, isn't a small part of life—it is everything. ( Originally published on Jul 08, 2025 )
Time of India
07-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Hair fall suddenly worse in the rains? Nutritionist shares 5 natural remedies for healthier hair
If you've been noticing more hair strands on your pillow or shower floor lately, you're not imagining things. Hair fall tends to worsen during the monsoon season, and it's not just because of the humidity in the air. Nutritionist Lovneet Batra recently took to social media to explain that monsoon hair fall is very real, and there's actual science behind it. What causes monsoon hair fall? Lovneet Batra shares that our hair goes through natural growth cycles — and during summer, more strands shift into the 'telogen' or resting phase. This means those hairs are ready to fall out, and the shedding usually starts during monsoon. That's why many people suddenly notice more hair loss as soon as the rains begin. Hair loss. (Pic credit- istock. Image used for representative purpose only) by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo On top of that, high humidity in the air causes the hair cuticle to swell. This makes the hair weaker and more prone to breakage. Add in the fact that infections and seasonal fevers are common during monsoon — and these illnesses can trigger sudden hair shedding too, something known as telogen effluvium. But there's good news: food can help According to Batra, the right diet can help support your hair from the inside out. Here are some simple, natural foods she recommends for stronger roots and healthier hair this season: Nannari (Indian sarsaparilla) Indian Sarsaparilla. (Pic credit- istock. Image used for representative purpose only) Known to cool the body and reduce internal inflammation, especially in the scalp. Orange pumpkin seeds These help block DHT, a hormone linked to hair fall, especially during monsoon. Black til (sesame seeds) Black til. (Pic credit- istock. Image used for representative purpose only) Rich in calcium, zinc, and healthy fats, they support stronger hair follicles. Aliv seeds (garden cress) Great source of iron, which helps improve oxygen flow to the scalp, especially useful after an illness. Dry ginger Soothes gut inflammation and improves blood circulation, which in turn boosts scalp health.
Time of India
02-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Top doctor suggests 10 changes in lifestyle to heart disease and cancer
In an age where stress is constant, food is often processed, and screens dominate our lives, many are left wondering: Is a healthy, long life still within reach? According to Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a renowned Hyderabad-based neurosurgeon and CMC Vellore graduate, the answer is a resounding yes — but only if we rewire our everyday habits. Dr. Kumar recently shared a powerful guide of 10 daily lifestyle and diet choices that can slash your risk of chronic illness and help you live not just longer, but better. Here's a look at what he recommends: 1. Healthy diet Healthy diet (Pic credit- istock. Image used for representative purpose only) Fill your plate with vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and lean meats. Cut back on red/processed meats, sugary drinks, and ultra-processed snacks. This shift is proven to reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Installing Solar Panels in Bangladesh Might Be Cheaper Then You Think Search | Solar Panels Undo 2. Physical activity Phsyical activity (Pic credit- istock. Image used for representative purpose only) Get at least 150–300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly, like brisk walking or cycling. Add strength training twice a week. This not only improves physical health but also lowers your chances of dementia and depression. 3. Quality sleep Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep. Poor sleep has been linked to serious issues like stroke, hypertension, and obesity. Stick to a routine, and turn off screens before bed. 4. No tobacco and alcohol Smoking remains the top preventable cause of early death. And alcohol? It's tied to liver damage, nerve issues, brain disorders, and several cancers. Cutting back is one of the most effective health moves you can make. 5. Watch your waist, not just your weight Keep your BMI between 20–25 and waist circumference below 90 cm (men) or 80 cm (women). Abdominal fat is particularly dangerous, increasing the risk of diabetes, strokes, and cancer. 6. Manage stress, protect your health Chronic stress lowers immunity and promotes inflammation. Carve out time for mindfulness, meditation, journaling, yoga, or just a walk in nature. Your brain and heart will thank you. 7. Slash salt and sugar Excess salt raises blood pressure. Limit it to under 5g a day. As for sugar, aim for it to be less than 10% of your daily calories to lower your risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic disorders. 8. Don't skip screenings Regular checkups can catch silent killers like hypertension, diabetes, and cancer early — when they're still treatable. Monitor your BP, lipids, glucose, and undergo age-appropriate cancer screenings. 9. Build deep human connections Make connections (Pic credit- istock. Image used for representative purpose only) Loneliness is as dangerous as smoking or obesity. Invest in family, friendships, and your community. Real social ties have real health benefits. 10. Soak in safe sun & boost Vitamin D Soak sun. (Pic credit- istock. Image used for representative purpose only) Spend 10–30 minutes in the sun daily and eat vitamin D-rich foods. It's essential for immunity, bone strength, and possibly reducing cancer risk. Bonus: Keep your mind sharp Engage in lifelong learning — read books, solve puzzles, learn new skills. These cognitive habits help guard against dementia and support a healthier brain.
Economic Times
01-07-2025
- Business
- Economic Times
Bengaluru founder explains how some middle-class people are silently building big wealth, without you even noticing
Bengaluru tech founder raises concerns over the middle-class's spending habits. (Pic credit- istock. Image used for representative purpose only) Once considered the steady backbone of Indian society, the middle class is now standing at a financial crossroads. In a viral LinkedIn post, Bengaluru-based founder Shyam Achuthan paints a sobering picture of a group that was once defined by upward mobility — steady jobs, small luxuries, and the dream of a home — but is now teetering between two stark outcomes: growing wealthy or going broke. There's no middle ground anymore, he argues — and many are unknowingly choosing the wrong path. However, he points out that some are silently building wealth by making the correct choices. Achuthan highlights a growing trend of financial self-sabotage among the modern middle class. With Instagram-worthy lifestyles and EMIs eating up salaries, many are living to impress, not to improve. A Rs 50,000 salary vanishes fast when Rs 20,000 goes to rent, Rs 10,000 to EMIs, and weekend spending tops Rs 5,000, leaving little to nothing for real savings. It's a cycle of looking rich while staying broke, or worse, heading into debt. But not everyone is playing this dangerous game. A smaller, quieter segment of the middle class is making radically different choices — avoiding flashy purchases, skipping big weddings, choosing used cars, and investing aggressively. They might not look successful today, but they're building wealth that will outlast trends and timelines. While one half of the middle class flexes for likes, the other is compounding gains for long-term to keep up with the rich on a middle-class paycheck, Achuthan warns, is like entering an F1 race with a scooter. Sooner or later, you'll burn out. In today's world of inflation, layoffs, and AI disruptions, the divide is widening fast, and only those who act intentionally will move up. His advice is simple but urgent: cut lifestyle inflation, track every rupee, invest 20–30% of your income, and focus on building assets, not liabilities. Above all, learn about money — don't just earn it. The middle class isn't just shrinking — it's splitting. And the choices you make today will decide which direction you take tomorrow. One user reflected on how the modern rat race often leads people astray, emphasizing that while flashy lifestyles may gain attention, it's the smart and strategic choices that truly matter in the long run. Another appreciated Shyam Achuthan's perspective on middle-class struggles, praising his insight into how social media-driven lifestyles are eroding financial security. They highlighted the power of disciplined saving and investing—like putting aside 20–30% of one's salary and tracking every expense—as the real game-changer for the future. ( Originally published on Jun 30, 2025 )
Economic Times
30-06-2025
- Health
- Economic Times
Have a desk job? CMC Vellore doctor warns of major health risk due to poor posture, neck strain. Shares 5 prevention tips
Slipped discs, traditionally an issue for older adults, are increasingly affecting younger individuals in their 20s and 30s. Experts attribute this rise to poor posture, tech neck from prolonged screen use, and sedentary lifestyles. Simple preventive measures, such as practicing good ergonomics, strengthening core muscles, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, can significantly reduce the risk of long-term spinal damage. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads What exactly is a slipped disc? So what's causing disc prolapse in younger adults? Slouching at the desk. (Pic credit- istock. Image used for representative purpose only) Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Obesity is one of the risk factors of sedentary lifestyle. (Pic credits- Istock. Image used for representative purpose only) Bad sleeping posture. (Pic credit- Istock. Image used for representative purpose only) How can young people protect their spine? Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Final word It's no longer just a problem for the elderly—slipped discs are now showing up in people in their 20s and 30s. Surprised? You shouldn't be, says Dr Sudhir Kumar, a Hyderabad-based neurologist, who is seeing a growing number of young patients suffering from disc prolapse . Blame it on tech neck, poor posture , and a sedentary lifestyle . The good news? A few simple changes can go a long way in preventing long-term called disc prolapse or disc bulge, the condition occurs when the cushioning disc between two vertebrae slips out of place and compresses nearby nerves. This can lead to pain in the neck, arms, and shoulders—often accompanied by tingling, numbness or even muscle weakness. Traditionally, slipped discs were more common in people over 50 due to age-related wear and tear. But that trend is rapidly Kumar outlines several risk factors:- Poor posture: Forward head tilt, slouching, and prolonged screen time on computers or smartphones (also called text neck) are key culprits.- Repetitive neck strain : Jobs that involve lifting, overhead work, or frequent neck movement can gradually wear down spinal discs.- Sedentary lifestyle: Sitting for long hours in poor ergonomic setups weakens the neck and core muscles, making the spine more vulnerable.- Trauma or high-impact sports: Activities like wrestling, CrossFit, or even a whiplash injury can trigger disc problems.- Genetic or congenital factors: Some people are born with conditions like early disc dehydration or connective tissue laxity (such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome), making them more prone.- Smoking and obesity: Both increase the risk—smoking reduces blood flow to spinal discs, while obesity adds extra strain on the spine.- Bad sleeping posture: Using multiple pillows or poor neck alignment during sleep can also be Kumar suggests a few simple but effective preventive measures:1. Practice proper ergonomics at work and while using screens2. Strengthen your neck, shoulder, and core muscles through regular exercise3. Avoid lifting heavy objects repetitively without support4. Quit smoking and maintain a healthy weight5. Use a single, supportive pillow to keep your neck aligned while sleepingSlipped discs might sound like something to worry about in old age, but they're becoming a real concern for millennials and Gen Z. The takeaway? Start early, stay active, and pay attention to your posture—your spine will thank you later.
