Old Indian Money-Saving Habits We Should Totally Revive in 2025
Amanpreet Singh | Apr 20, 2025, 09:41 IST
As inflation rises and modern lifestyles demand more, revisiting the money-saving wisdom of our parents and grandparents might be the smartest move. These old-school Indian habits, rooted in frugality and practicality, are surprisingly relevant today. Here's why we should bring them back in 2025.
In today’s fast-paced, consumer-driven world, saving money can feel harder than ever. With endless online sales, quick delivery temptations, and financial FOMO, managing personal finance is often overwhelming. But if we pause and look back, the generations before us had some solid money-saving habits — uniquely Indian, deeply practical, and worth reviving in 2025.
Here are some of those forgotten gems:
Before digital wallets, the humble "galla" or tin box ruled. Every rupee saved from household expenses or pocket money went into it. This habit wasn’t just about saving coins — it taught delayed gratification and the value of every rupee.
Why revive it?
It encourages mindful saving, especially for children. A physical savings box builds a tangible connection with money.
From turning old sarees into cushion covers to reusing glass jars, Indian households thrived on "jugaad" (creative fixes). Nothing was thrown away without considering its second life.
Why revive it?
It saves money, reduces waste, and aligns with sustainable living — a necessity in 2025.
Earlier generations focused on seasonal vegetables and fruits grown nearby — they were cheaper, fresher, and more nutritious.
Why revive it?
Seasonal, local food reduces costs and carbon footprints, and supports local farmers.
4.
Peels, stalks, and leftovers were rarely wasted. Orange peels were dried and used as room fresheners or face packs. Leftover rice became delicious pakoras.
Why revive it?
With food prices rising and climate concerns growing, zero-waste living is smart and sustainable.
5. Cooking at Home & Packing Tiffins
Eating out was a rare treat. Home-cooked meals were the norm, and lunchboxes were a daily ritual — even for travel.
Why revive it?
It saves massive amounts on dining and is healthier too. Homemade food is both economical and comforting.
Weddings, birthdays, and festivals were community-driven events. Families pooled resources, and everyone pitched in.
Why revive it?
It reduces individual financial burden and brings back a sense of community we’re losing in urban spaces.
Clothes, books, furniture — everything passed from elder siblings or relatives to the younger ones. It wasn’t considered “cheap” but normal.
Why revive it?
Thrift culture is trending globally. It's time we normalize this smart and sentimental Indian habit again.
Before digital payments, services were often exchanged — a neighbor teaching tuition in return for home-cooked meals, or a barber offering monthly visits in exchange for goods.
Why revive it?
In today’s gig economy, localized bartering or skill exchange can help build networks and reduce costs.
The financial wisdom of earlier Indian generations wasn’t just about saving money — it was about thoughtful living. As we enter 2025, with economic uncertainties and increasing costs, these old habits can help us live smarter, save better, and connect deeper. It's not about going backward, but about borrowing the best from the past to build a more mindful future.
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Here are some of those forgotten gems:
1. Bachat Galla (The Home Piggy Bank)
Why revive it?
It encourages mindful saving, especially for children. A physical savings box builds a tangible connection with money.
2. Reusing and Repurposing
Why revive it?
It saves money, reduces waste, and aligns with sustainable living — a necessity in 2025.
3. Buying Seasonal and Local Produce
Why revive it?
Seasonal, local food reduces costs and carbon footprints, and supports local farmers.
4. Zero-Waste Kitchens
Why revive it?
With food prices rising and climate concerns growing, zero-waste living is smart and sustainable.
5. Cooking at Home & Packing Tiffins
Why revive it?
It saves massive amounts on dining and is healthier too. Homemade food is both economical and comforting.
6. Collective Celebrations
Why revive it?
It reduces individual financial burden and brings back a sense of community we’re losing in urban spaces.
7. Hand-Me-Down Culture
Why revive it?
Thrift culture is trending globally. It's time we normalize this smart and sentimental Indian habit again.
8. Bartering Services Locally
Why revive it?
In today’s gig economy, localized bartering or skill exchange can help build networks and reduce costs.
Explore the latest trends and tips in Health & Fitness, Travel, Life Hacks, Fashion & Beauty, and Relationships at Times Life.