Have you ever watched a show where each episode feels like a snapshot of your own life, complete with family banter, tight budgets, and dreams that might seem just out of reach? If yes, then you’ve likely come across Gullak, the beloved Indian web series that captures the essence of a middle-class household. At first glance, it’s a lighthearted dramedy, but hidden within the family’s day-to-day challenges are enduring money lessons from Gullak – nuggets of wisdom that can help you manage your finances more effectively.
From witty dialogues to heartwarming moments, Gullak portrays the Mishra family’s financial dilemmas in such a relatable way that you can’t help but reflect on your own money habits. Let’s explore some of the most valuable lessons, so you can apply them to your life and turn “paise ki tangi” (money troubles) into financial empowerment.
Why “Gullak” is a Perfect Mirror for Middle-Class Money Woes
In many Indian homes—especially those in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities—dining-table conversations revolve around next month’s rent, a growing grocery list, and dreams of a better future. Gullak highlights these everyday realities with authenticity. Whether it’s negotiating with a local shopkeeper or figuring out how to pay a sudden electricity bill, the Mishra family reflects our own struggles and, more importantly, how we navigate them with humour and resilience.
Key Takeaway: The show affirms that you don’t need extraordinary circumstances or huge incomes to learn solid financial lessons – sometimes, it’s the everyday “juggad” (improvisation) that teaches us how to handle money best.
So, here are the top money lessons from Gullak you should know!
1. Embrace Small Savings
One recurring theme in Gullak is the constant balancing act to meet daily expenses. The family’s “gullak” (piggy bank) often serves as a quick source of emergency funds, whether it’s for an unplanned purchase or a necessary household repair.
How This Applies to You
- Start with a Gullak
Yes, literally. Keep a physical piggy bank at home for small change. You’d be surprised how quickly those coins and spare notes can accumulate into a useful sum. - Use a Digital Alternative
If you prefer digital transactions, set up a separate savings account or a monthly auto-debit into a recurring deposit. Think of it as your modern-day gullak.
Money Lesson: Even a few rupees saved here and there add up over time. Don’t underestimate the power of small but consistent contributions.
2. Budgeting: The Bedrock of Stability
In Gullak, you’ll notice how the parents discuss expenses, plan grocery shopping, and manage bills. Although they sometimes struggle with unexpected costs (like a medical emergency or a sudden function to attend), having a broad sense of income vs. expenditure helps them stay afloat.
How This Applies to You
- Create a Monthly Budget
List all your essential expenditures—rent, groceries, utilities—and subtract them from your income. Whatever remains is your “playground” for saving, investing, or discretionary spending. - Prioritise Expenses
If you have a family (or roommates), involve everyone in deciding how to allocate funds. Communication is key to avoiding overspending and ensuring everyone’s needs are met.
Money Lesson: A simple monthly budget is your financial roadmap. It doesn’t have to be fancy—a pen, paper, and a calculator can do wonders. Consistency in tracking your spending is what truly counts.
3. The Power of Family Collaboration
One of the show’s most endearing aspects is how every family member pitches in—whether it’s a sudden need to pool money for a wedding gift or an emergency repair at home. Each person’s contribution, big or small, can collectively solve larger financial challenges.
How This Applies to You
- Discuss Financial Goals Together
Whether you want to save for a family vacation or pay off a loan, talk about your objectives openly. This aligns everyone’s efforts. - Share the Burden
Children can contribute by being mindful of using electricity or water. A spouse with a side hustle can dedicate some earnings to the family’s emergency fund. Every bit helps.
Money Lesson: When a household unites financially—discussing, planning, and contributing—the load becomes lighter. This teaches the importance of teamwork and shared responsibility.
4. Managing “Unexpected” Expenses
In Gullak, unplanned expenses appear regularly, like a relative’s sudden visit or a school fee that demands immediate payment. The family deals with these by dipping into their limited savings or rearranging their monthly budget.
How This Applies to You
- Build an Emergency Fund
Allocate three to six months’ worth of living expenses in a separate account. This buffer ensures that medical emergencies or sudden job loss don’t derail your financial stability. - Plan for Predictable Surprises
“Predictable surprises” are events like festivals, weddings, or annual school fees—costs that aren’t monthly but definitely happen. Estimate these expenses and set aside a small amount every month, so you’re not caught off guard.
Money Lesson: Life is unpredictable, but by anticipating common unplanned events and saving beforehand, you can tackle them without sinking into debt.
5. Humour and Positivity Can Lighten the Load
A hallmark of Gullak is its comedic, heartwarming approach to financial hardship. While money troubles can cause stress, the Mishra family showcases that positivity and a sense of humour can make tough times more bearable.
How This Applies to You
- Don’t Beat Yourself Up Over Mistakes
If you overspent this month or dipped into your savings, focus on solutions rather than dwelling on the error. Adjust your budget, tighten your belt for a few weeks, and move on. - Stay Motivated
Involve friends or family in small savings challenges. Laugh about the inconveniences, turn saving into a game—like who can go the longest without ordering takeout.
Money Lesson: Keeping a positive mindset and acknowledging that slip-ups happen can help you recover faster. Financial well-being is as much emotional as it is numerical.
6. Explore “Jugaad” (Innovative Solutions)
The Mishra family often uses resourceful methods, like reusing household items or bargaining with shopkeepers, to stretch their money further. This approach encourages creativity in financial planning.
How This Applies to You
- DIY Mindset
Could you fix that leaky tap yourself or do a quick paint job rather than hiring someone immediately? If the task is manageable, you save money (and learn a new skill). - Buy Second-Hand
From furniture to gadgets, second-hand marketplaces can offer quality items at reduced prices. Bargaining or comparing online deals can further slash costs.
Money Lesson: By embracing jugaad and focusing on creative solutions, you’ll find that your money goes a long way without sacrificing the essentials.
7. Passing Down Financial Values
One subtle aspect of Gullak is how parents unconsciously teach children about money. Whether it’s scolding them for wasting resources or showing them how to handle small sums, the kids pick up life-long lessons.
How This Applies to You
- Involve Kids in Budget Talks
Simple gestures, like letting them count money or asking them to suggest ways to reduce electricity usage, instil financial awareness early. - Reward Good Financial Behaviour
If your child saves part of their pocket money or finds an innovative way to reuse items, offer positive reinforcement. This forms a foundation of responsible money habits.
Money Lesson: Family financial habits shape the next generation. Leading by example and talking openly about money fosters a financially literate household.
Conclusion
Gullak isn’t just about a small-town family’s comedic escapades; it’s a masterclass in how to navigate everyday financial ups and downs with resilience, collaboration, and a healthy dose of humour. By applying these money lessons from Gullak—from building a tiny emergency fund to practising open conversations about finances—you can create a more secure financial life, even with a modest salary.
Remember, true financial transformation isn’t about radical or overnight changes. It’s about small steps, taken consistently—like dropping spare coins into a gullak or cutting one unnecessary outing a month. Over time, these changes compound into significant progress, helping you achieve your dream goals or handle life’s curveballs without constant worry.
If you resonated with these money lessons from Gullak, start small. Set up a recurring deposit today or involve your family in a mini-budgeting session. Let’s make every rupee count, just like the Mishras do, and transform our middle-class dreams into fulfilling realities.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: How can I start saving if my salary is really low?
Begin with tiny amounts—perhaps just ₹100 a week—and increase as your comfort grows. Even modest earnings can benefit from discipline. Over time, explore flexible side gigs or part-time work to boost income.
Q2: What’s the best way to handle unforeseen costs without a huge salary?
An emergency fund is crucial. Start by stashing away a part of your monthly income—say, 5–10%—into a separate savings account. If bigger emergencies arise, avoid high-interest debt if possible. Consider family or community support as a temporary measure, but always aim to replenish your fund.
Q3: How do I talk to my family about finances without causing arguments?
Approach the topic calmly and choose a relaxed setting. Focus on shared goals—like saving for a family trip or a child’s education. Emphasise teamwork and plan how each member can contribute, even if only by conserving resources.
Q4: Can I use budgeting apps if I’m not very tech-savvy?
Many budgeting apps are user-friendly, featuring clear categories and simple tracking tools. Start with well-reviewed apps or even basic note-taking apps. Alternatively, a spreadsheet or a dedicated notebook can also do the job well.
Q5: Should I invest in mutual funds or stick to traditional methods like fixed deposits?
Mutual funds can offer higher returns but come with market risk. Fixed deposits are stable but yield lower growth. Assess your risk tolerance, financial goals, and time horizon. For beginners, consider a hybrid approach: some money in safe deposits, some in low-risk or balanced mutual funds.
Q6: Are gullaks (piggy banks) really practical in the digital age?
A gullak is more about forming a savings habit. Even if you mostly transact digitally, the visual and tangible act of placing coins or small notes daily can reinforce the value of disciplined saving. For larger sums, digital savings accounts or auto-debits work better.
Q7: How often should I review my budget?
Monthly or bi-monthly reviews are ideal, especially if your expenses fluctuate. Checking regularly ensures you catch any overspending early and can adjust your plan accordingly.
Q8: How can I teach my children about money without making it stressful?
Start small: give them pocket money and encourage them to track their spending. Gamify saving, like offering them a small reward if they save a part of their allowance for a month. Keep conversations positive, focusing on achievable goals rather than just restrictions.
Q9: What if my partner and I have different spending habits?
Clear, empathetic communication is key. Identify shared objectives (like saving for a home) and agree on a mutual budget. Each person can have a personal allowance for discretionary spending. Consistent check-ins prevent misunderstandings and keep both parties on the same page.
By implementing these money lessons from Gullak, you can make meaningful strides in your financial journey, much like the Mishra family. Small steps, taken consistently, can transform your relationship with money and foster a more secure, happier household.
