Mira Kapoor reveals how she and husband Shahid manage money as a couple: ‘Had to learn how to budget the house’

Money is a sensitive topic, tied to security and stability from a young age. Without open conversations, we might not feel secure, leading to distrust and underperformance in the relationship. Aligning financial goals with your partner encourages this financial security.

Mukesh Pandey, Director of Rupyaa Paisa, believes that for couples in a relationship, financial issues rarely stem from a lack of money but rather from a misunderstanding of how each person views money.

“In India, it has been reported that by 2025, more than half of all households will be borrowing more money than before. The average per household for all loaned money has risen 23% from 2023 to 2025; the amount owed by the average household is now about 4.8 lakhs per person,” Pandey told indianexpress.com. He added that according to research by Rupya Paisa, almost 41% of couples globally who combine their financial resources engage in financial infidelity (e.g., lying or hiding their debts or purchases).

Mira reveals she is in charge of handling the household budget. (Source: Instagram/@mira.kapoor)

Communication is key

Pandey says that couples who do not communicate openly about their finances, including income levels and debt, can often feel pressured, both as individuals and as a couple. According to him, financial health is most effectively achieved through honest conversations, combining financial resources, and realistic expectations regarding savings and investments.

“Having regular monthly chats regarding financial situations, establishing savings and investment plans, disclosing credit and spending behaviour, and discussing upcoming expenses are not just additional benefits; these are fundamental aspects of couples’ financial wellness,” he shared, adding that when evident communication about finances occurs, couples can create stronger financial partnerships and improve trust between one another.

But so are boundaries

Aarti Chawla, a Mumbai-based relationship psychotherapist and life coach, agreed with him, adding that it is critical to set boundaries on financial transactions and individual expenses to promote financial harmony and avoid daily conflicts over who is spending more. In a relationship, it is healthy to recognise that there is no absolute right or wrong, only different perspectives.

Maturity involves finding a harmonious path and sometimes making compromises. And financial harmony isn’t just about managing money; it’s about aligning values, fostering trust, and working towards shared goals. “Open communication, understanding, and mutual respect create a solid foundation for a fulfilling and prosperous relationship,” said Chawla.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to.