‘The middle-class Ravi Kishan has not left me’: How the actor’s childhood poverty still influences his spending; psychology behind the guilt

He also mentioned that in his early days in Mumbai, he survived on vada pav and tea, spending 15 years in the film industry without a respectable salary. I’ve faced extreme humiliation,” he reflected. “While most people experience it a few times, I’ve faced it thousands of times. All of this has shaped the person I am today. “

Kishan shared how, even now, as a successful star, he hesitates to order expensive food at luxury hotels, irrespective of who’s footing the bill. “When I visit a 7-star hotel, I still can’t bring myself to order expensive food, no matter who’s paying,” he revealed, adding, “I still opt for khichdi. I’m reluctant to send my clothes for laundry and prefer washing them at home when I return. That sense of poverty still lingers in me. The middle-class Ravi Kishan has not left me.”

Although he remains hesitant to spend on himself, he urges his family to enjoy luxuries. “I’m happy to pay for their wants, but when it comes to me, I can’t spend. It’s usually my family who buys me clothes, phones, or other luxury items,” he said.

This confession highlights a universal truth about how growing up in poverty can deeply influence a person’s psyche. From guilt associated with spending money to prioritising savings overindulgence, childhood hardships often shape financial and emotional behaviors in adulthood. 

Learning to align spending habits with personal values—whether that means treating oneself or supporting others—can ease internal conflict. (Source: Freepik)

But what exactly drives these habits?

Psychologist Anjali Gursahaney tells indianexpress.com, “A scarcity mindset, often developed by individuals who grow up in poverty, is rooted in the belief that resources are limited and uncertain. This can manifest as over-saving or hoarding money and avoiding financial risks, even when in a stable position. Additionally, a deep fear of loss and returning to deprivation may lead to hyper-vigilance over finances, prioritising security over enjoyment or investment.” 

On the other hand, some individuals may adopt impulsive spending habits as a way to compensate for the deprivation they experienced in childhood. Emotional ties to money, shaped by fear, shame, and anxiety, often influence decisions that prioritise survival over long-term planning, underscoring the profound psychological impact of early financial hardship.

Strategies to reconcile with past hardships while developing healthier spending and saving behaviours

Gursahaney suggests the following strategies:

Acknowledging the Past: Reflecting on one’s childhood and understanding how it shaped their relationship with money is the first step to change.

Redefining Money’s Purpose: Shifting perspectives to see money as a tool for growth and enjoyment, rather than merely survival, can foster healthier habits.

Setting Intentional Goals: Developing a balanced financial plan with room for saving, investing, and indulgence helps bridge security with enjoyment.

Practicing Self-Compassion: Reframing indulgences as self-care rather than guilt-inducing behaviours can reduce hesitation.

Mindful Spending: Learning to align spending habits with personal values—whether that means treating oneself or supporting others—can ease internal conflict.