India, Aug. 13 -- HT Syndication

New Delhi [India], August 13: On Independence Day, conversations around freedom often extend beyond the nation's borders and into our personal lives. One such aspiration is financial freedom--a goal many believe they've achieved simply because they're earning well or have built a sizeable investment portfolio.

Consider Rohan, 35, an entrepreneur running a digital marketing agency. His investments generate enough income to support his family, and he no longer relies on a monthly paycheck. Yet, he isn't sure he can comfortably take a year off to travel, pursue a passion project or retire early without worrying about future financial commitments.

Or Meera, 42, a business owner who has built a healthy inves...