Ms. Shidha: Keshav, around 15 years ago, you met your old schoolmate, Mr. Shashikant Patole, Founder of AddOn Financial Services, at a school reunion after many years. You initially didn’t even recognise each other. What happened after that meeting?
Mr. Keshav: It was truly a coincidence. Once we reintroduced ourselves, we began talking about our careers, life and eventually, personal finance.
At that point, I had very little experience with investing and no structured financial plan. What stood out to me was that the discussion wasn't about selling a financial product—it was about understanding my aspirations and helping me plan for the future.
That conversation marked the beginning of a journey that has shaped my financial life over the past fifteen years.
Ms. Shidha: Fifteen years is a long relationship. What made it last?
Mr. Keshav: Three things—trust, open communication and consistency.
There were regular portfolio reviews, practical advice and continuous efforts to help me understand financial concepts better. As the years passed, I became much more aware of how my finances worked and felt better equipped to make informed decisions.
It never felt like a client-advisor relationship. It grew into a lasting partnership built on mutual trust.
Ms. Shidha: You consistently increased your SIP whenever your salary increased. How important was that?
Mr. Keshav: It made a tremendous difference.
Each time my income increased, I made it a point to increase my SIP as well. Although the additional amount seemed small at the time, those incremental increases had a significant impact over the years.
It reinforced an important lesson for me—that disciplined investing, combined with patience, can create lasting financial security.
Ms. Shidha: During COVID, markets fell sharply and your investments were also affected. How did you respond?
Mr. Keshav: Like many investors, I was concerned when the markets declined so sharply. Instead of reacting emotionally, I spoke with Mr. Patole, understood the situation and trusted the investment strategy we had built.
I continued investing without interruption and remained focused on my long-term objectives. Looking back, staying disciplined during that period turned out to be one of my best financial decisions.
Ms. Shidha: Your approach went beyond investments and included Health Insurance, Term Insurance, a Contingency Fund, Short-Term Goals and Long-Term Wealth Creation. How important was this?
Mr. Keshav: It was one of the most valuable lessons I learned.
Financial wellbeing isn't built through investments alone. Adequate insurance, emergency preparedness, planning for near-term goals and building wealth for the future all play equally important roles.
Looking at my finances holistically gave me far greater peace of mind and helped me feel financially secure.
Ms. Shidha: You are now about a year and a half away from retirement. How do you feel about this next phase?
Mr. Keshav: I feel optimistic and well prepared.
When I first began this journey, I had limited knowledge about investing and very little financial planning in place. Today, I have much greater clarity about my finances and feel ready for the years ahead.
The habits I developed over the years have given me confidence that I can enjoy my retirement without constant financial worry.
Ms. Shidha: Is there anything you regret?
Mr. Keshav: Only one thing—I wish I had started earlier.
Beginning my financial planning sooner would have given my investments even more time to benefit from compounding and create greater wealth.
If there's one message I'd like to share with the younger generation, it's this:
Don't wait. Start as early as you can, invest consistently and allow time to work in your favour.
Ms. Shidha: You strongly believe that financial decisions shouldn't always be treated as DIY. Why?
Mr. Keshav: Because managing your finances is an ongoing responsibility.
Markets evolve, tax regulations change and our financial priorities shift as we move through different stages of life. During uncertain times, emotions can easily influence important decisions.
Having a trusted professional who provides perspective, reviews your financial plan and helps you stay focused can make a meaningful difference.
For me, that support helped me make better decisions with greater clarity and discipline.
Ms. Shidha: You also believe insurance should be taken with proper professional guidance. Why?
Mr. Keshav: Because insurance is ultimately about protecting the people who depend on you.
Purchasing a policy is only the first step. Choosing the right cover requires an understanding of your family's needs, future responsibilities and potential risks. It's equally important to have someone dependable who can support you whenever assistance is required.
That's why I believe insurance decisions should always be made thoughtfully, with professional advice and someone you can rely on for years to come.
Ms. Shidha: Finally, what would you like to tell the younger generation?
Mr. Keshav: Start early. Invest consistently. Increase your investments as your income grows and remain committed, even when markets become volatile.
Continue learning about personal finance and review your financial plan from time to time.
Most importantly, don't feel that you have to navigate everything on your own. Finding the right financial advisor can help you make informed decisions and stay on track towards your goals.
A Personal Note from Mr. Keshav
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the entire AddOn team for the unwavering support they have extended to me over the past fifteen years.
When I first approached AddOn, I had very little exposure to structured financial planning. Today, I feel financially aware, well prepared and optimistic about the future.
Your disciplined approach, practical advice and consistent support have helped me make informed decisions and remain committed to my financial goals through every phase of the market.
I deeply appreciate your professionalism, transparent communication and genuine commitment to understanding my needs. More than managing investments, you have invested your time in educating me and helping me build the confidence to make better financial decisions.
I look forward to continuing this relationship and building on the strong foundation we have created together.
Thank you to the entire AddOn team for being a trusted part of my financial journey.
Closing Note
Ms. Shidha: Keshav's story reminds us that financial confidence isn't built overnight.
It is the result of thoughtful planning, disciplined investing, patience and the willingness to seek the right advice when it matters most.
Thank you, Keshav, for sharing your experience and for allowing us to be a part of your journey.
We wish you a happy, healthy and fulfilling retirement, and many more years of financial peace and prosperity