Bengaluru Woman's Appeal to Young Earners: Prioritise Saving Over Lifestyle Splurges

A video shared by a Bengaluru woman has sparked a heated debate on social media over the spending habits of young people in India. Simridhi Makhija, who has been living in the city for seven months, questioned why many individuals in their early 20s choose expensive lifestyles instead of focusing on building savings for the future.

In the Instagram video, Makhija cited several spending habits she found difficult to understand, even among those who could comfortably afford them. She said she did not see the logic in spending Rs 5,000 on a single visit to a cafe, paying Rs 40,000 per month on rent when a suitable home could be found for around Rs 20,000, or spending Rs 20,000 on shopping in one outing. She emphasised that her remarks applied even to people who earned enough to sustain such expenses, arguing that those in their early 20s should prioritise saving.

Makhija also touched upon the concept of lifestyle inflation, a phenomenon where people increase their spending as their income rises. She suggested that a higher salary should not automatically translate into a higher standard of living. Instead, she advocated for earning more, spending only on essential needs, and saving as much as possible, given the uncertain times ahead.

Her comments have divided social media users. Some applauded her message, echoing the danger of lifestyle inflation. One user wrote, "Don't let lifestyle inflation eat up every raise." Others, however, pushed back, arguing that young people should also enjoy the fruits of their labour. A contrasting comment read, "Don't focus too much on saving money in your 20s. Focus more on increasing your income."

The debate reflects a broader generational discussion in urban India about financial priorities. While some believe that disciplined saving in early career stages is essential for long-term security, others argue that income growth, rather than aggressive frugality, is the key to financial well-being. Both perspectives find support among financial experts, who often recommend a balanced approach that includes saving, investing, and controlled spending for a healthy financial life.

Makhija's video has become a talking point not just for its content but also for the way it highlights the diverse financial realities in a city like Bengaluru, where the cost of living varies widely. For many young professionals, the choice between an upscale lifestyle and a more modest one is not purely about income, but also about personal values, career goals, and future planning.

While the debate is unlikely to be settled soon, it underscores an important question: how should young Indians balance present enjoyment with future security? The answer, as the responses suggest, depends on individual circumstances and priorities.