Reaching ₹1 Crore Net Worth by 25: FIRE Lessons from a Young Indian Engineer
6/22/2025
It’s not every day that a 25-year-old shares how they hit ₹1.1 crore in net worth. But that’s exactly what a Redditor recently posted — and there’s a lot we can learn from it. Whether you're just starting your financial journey or actively pursuing FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early), this story is packed with real, applicable insights.
A Snapshot of His Financials
Here’s how the numbers break down:
- RSUs: ₹65L
- Mutual Funds: ₹35L
- Provident Fund: ₹7L
- Savings Account: ₹3L
Total Net Worth: ₹1.1 Crore
He’s a Software Development Engineer (SDE-2) at a top tech company, working since graduating in 2021. The biggest contributors? RSU appreciation, mutual fund gains, and consistent salary growth.
Start Strong, Save Aggressively
In his own words, he began by saving nearly 80% of his salary during the initial months of his career — especially when working from home with fewer expenses.
This phase, where your income begins to grow but expenses remain low, is powerful. It’s where you can build momentum and deploy capital toward long-term wealth.
If you’re unsure how to start, check out our article on Can Kakeibo Help If You Live Paycheck to Paycheck?
Build Wealth with Equity and SIPs
His portfolio is equity-heavy — and that’s by design. Most of his gains came from stock-based compensation (RSUs) and mutual fund appreciation.
This is a good reminder that equity can be a core pillar of wealth building, especially in your 20s. Understanding your compensation structure, and setting up automated SIPs into diverse mutual funds, can help you build long-term capital.
For more practical steps, explore our related piece on Kakeibo vs the 50/30/20 Rule
Balance Between Frugality and Lifestyle
Despite his high savings rate, he still takes one international and a couple of domestic vacations each year. That’s intentional living, not deprivation.
He’s not trying to retire tomorrow. He’s enjoying the ride while planning responsibly — a mindset perfectly aligned with the Kakeibo method.
Kakeibo doesn’t just help you cut costs. It helps you ask: Do I really need this? That question alone can reshape your spending habits over time.
Midway Reflection: FIRE Isn’t a Race
If you’re curious to see the original discussion, you can read the full post here on Reddit.
He doesn’t claim to have all the answers. He’s not rushing toward retirement. He’s just setting milestones and making steady progress. His next target? ₹3 Crore by age 30.
This approach is a lot like the journey we covered in our post on Going from 1 Crore to 2 Crores in 1.5 Years
FIRE Goals Evolve — And That’s Okay
The future is uncertain. And he acknowledges that. Yet setting goals like “₹3 Cr at 30” gives direction, even if the path changes.
This is why tools like Kakeibo matter. They let you reflect regularly on whether your financial goals still align with your lifestyle and values.
For deeper insight into this mindset, check out The Psychology Behind Kakeibo
Final Thoughts: Your Income Isn’t Everything — Habits Are
You don’t need to be in big tech or earn seven figures to start your FIRE journey.
What matters more is:
- Saving early, even in small amounts
- Building habits around reflection and review
- Tracking what matters, not just what’s easy
Systems like Kakeibo aren’t about complex financial plans. They’re about creating awareness — and through awareness, progress.
Want to try it yourself?
Download our free Kakeibo budgeting template and use it to reflect on your spending this month.
You might be surprised how far intentionality can take you — even before you earn your first crore.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did a 25-year-old reach ₹1 Crore net worth in India?
The portfolio included RSUs (₹65L), Mutual Funds (₹35L), Provident Fund (₹7L), and Savings (₹3L). Key factors were aggressive early saving (80% of salary initially when expenses were low), consistent investing through SIPs, and RSU/stock appreciation from working in tech.
What is the best way to start FIRE in your 20s in India?
Start by saving aggressively when expenses are low (like during WFH periods). Set up automated SIPs in diverse mutual funds. Focus on career growth to increase income. Build habits around reflection and review, and track what matters using systems like Kakeibo.
Is a high income necessary for FIRE?
No, a high income isn't necessary to start your FIRE journey. What matters more is saving early (even in small amounts), building consistent habits, and tracking your progress. Systems like Kakeibo help create awareness, which leads to better decisions at any income level.
How should I balance frugality with enjoying life on a FIRE journey?
FIRE isn't about deprivation. The successful approach includes intentional spending on what matters (like vacations) while planning responsibly. Kakeibo helps by asking 'Do I really need this?'—reshaping spending habits while still allowing for valued experiences.
How can I set and track FIRE goals effectively?
Break big goals into smaller milestones (first ₹10L, then ₹50L, then ₹1Cr). Review your FIRE number annually as life changes. Use Kakeibo journaling to check if financial goals still align with life goals. Documenting your journey creates clarity and motivation.