New Delhi, Sept. 28 -- Coming from an academic background, actor-producer Richa Chaddha says she values Saraswati (knowledge) more than Lakshmi (wealth). While she admits she likes money, she is equally serious about saving and investing it wisely. Realizing that fixed deposits can't beat inflation, she shifted to mutual funds. She avoids flashy bets like cryptocurrencies, gaming apps and beauty brands, preferring to keep her portfolio simple. In an interview at the Mint Money Festival 2025, Chaddha said her investments gave her the confidence to take a career break after her child without financial worry. Edited excerpts:

Chaddha: My mom was always in a teaching job. My father was also an academic, but at some point, changed paths to mo...