India, Nov. 29 -- Even the memes have figured it out. There's one that goes: "If I win the lottery, I won't tell anyone. But there will be signs". And those signs are basically subtle splurges: A basement converted into a Hot Wheels shrine, kitchens with a secret pantry just for snacks, women slathering La Mer cream on their feet, a farm for 50 doggos... We lowkey know that getting rich overnight will probably never happen. That even if it did, we shouldn't show it off, blow it up or let it change us. But how to best manage a windfall? Experts say it depends on your age, location and your personality. Here's what to do if you ever win the lottery. And yes, we're manifesting. But under the Right To Information Act, even if a lottery company knows who you are, they cannot make your details public without your consent. Stay anonymous. Think of Indra Narayan Sen, a 70-year-old retired tubewell operator in West Bengal, who won Rs.1 crore in 2020. Three days in, he had to ask the police for security, because people kept harassing him with advice, congratulations and requests. And take inspiration from the Kerala State Lotteries Department's 2023 Pooja Bumper winner, who won Rs.10 crore, but chose not to disclose his/her identity. If you're in your 20s, focus on growth, Jeswani says. Allocate 10% to a long-term guaranteed-income option such as a public provident fund and national savings certificates. Invest the rest in equity mutual funds and to build your career skills. Investment planner Neeraj Bahal says blowing it all up in your 20s is a bad idea. "At this age, there's a good chance that you'll make a lot of money in a job and pay taxes. For your lottery money, look for tax-free schemes." If you're in your 30s, balance security and growth by keeping 20% in annuities or guaranteed income options. "So you can afford to retire early," says Bahal. Put the rest into your kids' future, a business, or a retirement dream, says Jeswani. If you win after the age of 40, put 30% to 40% of your win into guaranteed-income options. There are fewer years ahead to play around with, so invest in moderate-risk mutual funds, says Bahal. Winners rarely act this way. "It's unreal to think anyone can control their urge to splurge the money they win, and not be rattled by it," says life coach Dipika Singh. Most winners hold off on the spending, only to suddenly cave and spend foolishly. She advises carving out a blow-it-up budget to buy what you've always dreamed of. After that, it's easier to manage the rest of the fortune. "Ask yourself where your happiness comes from." Is it your family? Helping others? A new purpose? Doing nothing? An honest answer will help you plan well, and enjoy your money for longer....