More the money, merrier you can be: Karan Mehra

His perfectly chiseled body coupled with his exceptional acting skills makes him a deadly combination difficult to resist. He is down to earth, frank and bowls over the audience with his versatility and chocolate boy eyes. Karan Mehra, who made television debut with Sahara One’s Saath Rahega Always, has been a part of various shows like Shanno Ki Shaadi, Sati-Satya Ki Shakti, Betiyaan Apni Ya Paraya Dhan, Amrit Manthan, Bade Achhe Lagte Hain and is most popular for his ongoing popular sitcom Pavitra Rishta on Zee TV. Tellychakkar.com caught up with the charming actor who unveiled some very interesting tips about investments and savings. Take a look. How important is money to you? Money is very important. Philosophically money cannot buy you true love or friendship. But practically speaking, if you live in Mumbai and want a comfortable lifestyle, money is important. The more the money, the merrier you can be. Are you an impulsive buyer? Yes, totally. If I like something, I buy it. Even before my salary comes in, I preplan a long list of where I need to spend it. I am not really the ‘saving’ type of a person. What are the investments that you have made? Yes I have made investments in terms of property. And the only reason I even invested was due to family pressure. Or else I wouldn’t mind living like a gypsy (laughs). What has been your most expensive purchase? My most expensive purchase till date is my Harley Davidson bike. Do you feel financially secure? I think being feeling financially secure is a state of mind. If you can buy what you need, you feel secure. If you can’t, you feel insecure. Similarly when you have something, you want more of it. And the list is never ending since we all are insatiable. But I think when you look at people less privileged than you, you learn to appreciate what you have. For me, happiness defines security. I am happy so I feel secure. Who handles your expenses? I and my wife usually match and handle all the expenses together. Though I am the one who gets scolded most of the times (laughs). What was your first salary? My first salary was Rs.800 in 1999. I was working for this company called ICS (Indian Club System). They had ventured into Delhi and I had to promote the offers their clubs had and sell membership cards for 5 star hotels and clubs. I had to literally lure them into buying it, but it was fun back then. How much money do you carry every day? Sometimes I carry Rs3000-4000 whereas on other days I just carry my cards. Your advice to new investors? I am not really the right person to give tips on investments. But I’d say, property is the best buy and new investors should definitely invest in it. It will serve as your tangible asset that can be later converted into money. Also invest in insurances because they prove useful in the long run.