Nine Days, Nine Investments: Building A Balanced Portfolio This Navratri

Navratri is already here, and chances are, you have already started planning, maybe deciding which outfits to wear, which sweets to buy, or how to decorate your home. It is that time of the year when we get excited, make lists, and set budgets for nine days of celebration.

If we can put so much care into planning for nine days of celebration, why not give the same attention to our finances? Each day of Navratri has its own energy, its own lesson, and in the same way, each investment choice can teach us something about building wealth. The nine goddesses worshipped during the festival can inspire ways to build a portfolio that is resilient, well-balanced, and able to withstand economic, geopolitical, and inflationary shocks.

Day 1 – Shailaputri: Start with Emergency Funds

Shailaputri symbolises beginnings. It is a good time to start a financial journey on a solid footing. First, set aside a small emergency fund. It does not need to be large, but it should cover a few months of expenses. With this cushion, taking calculated risks with other investments becomes easier. It also reduces the chance of panic when unexpected bills appear.

Day 2 – Brahmacharini: Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)

Brahmacharini teaches patience and discipline. Money grows best when invested consistently. Putting a small amount regularly into Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) in mutual funds can help wealth grow over time. There is no need to time the market or make complex trades. Adding money every month with a strict discipline is more important than the starting amount.

Day 3 – Chandraghanta: Diversified Equity Portfolio

Chandraghanta shows balance, which is exactly what you need in equities. Do not put all money into one stock or sector. Spread investments across different companies and industries. This way, if one area does not perform well, the portfolio does not take a big hit. Investing is not about avoiding risk, but about managing it wisely.

Day 4 – Kushmanda: Growth Mutual Funds

Kushmanda represents energy and creation, and for your money, this could mean growth. Some funds can be put in growth-oriented mutual funds or stocks in emerging industries. These investments may be riskier, but they can give higher returns over time. It is important to review the portfolio regularly to make sure it is on track.

Day 5 – Skandamata: Child Education & Long-Term Plans

Skandamata stands for nurturing, which is perfect when you think about the future of your family. Putting money into child education plans, retirement funds, or a trust can make a big difference over time. Small steps today can provide financial security later. Planning ahead gives peace of mind and ensures the family is protected, even if unexpected events happen.

Day 6 – Katyayani: Fixed Deposits & Safe Debt Funds

Katyayani is all about courage and resilience, which also applies when markets experience high volatility. Not all investments are supposed to be high risk. Fixed deposits and debt funds provide stability. They do not give very high returns, but they protect your money during high turbulence in the market. Including these in a portfolio makes it easier to stay calm when equity markets fluctuate.

Day 7 – Kalaratri: Gold & Sovereign Bonds

Kalaratri reminds us to prepare for the unexpected. That’s why keeping some money in gold or government bonds is a good idea. These investments act like a shield when other assets are unstable. You may not earn big returns from them, but the safety they provide is very valuable during tough market times.

Day 8 – Mahagauri: Real Estate & Tangible Assets

Mahagauri represents purity and clarity. For investors, this means putting money into something real, like property. It could be a home, land, or other physical assets. These investments feel safe and hold value for a long time. Also, knowing exactly what you own gives peace of mind that stocks cannot.

Day 9 – Siddhidatri: Financial Education & Advisory

Siddhidatri represents wisdom, and in finance, knowledge is power. Take time to learn about markets. Read, talk to advisors, or join workshops. The more you know, the better decisions you can make. Even small steps, like reviewing your portfolio or learning about taxes, build real financial confidence.