Money. That's what drives everyone in the final analysis, whether in the glamour world of acting or the hard grind of scripting and producing. Cashin' In sits down with TV celebs to know well they handle their financial matters, and tracks their spending patterns.

How important is money for you?

Money is definitely important to satiate your worldly desires and also to upgrade your status in society. I think if you are loaded you will be surrounded by people and when you are facing a financial crunch you will be left alone. In today’s world it does matter how wealthy you are. For me too money is important but not more than relationship. Money is important to survive.

Are you an impulsive buyer?

Now all the attention has shifted from me to my kids. Whenever I go shopping I end up buying stuff for my kids which may not be necessarily chalked out. So I am an impulsive buyer when it comes to my kids.

What are the investments you have made?

I have invested a little here and there which includes LIC, PPF and other policies.

What is your most expensive purchase?

It has to be my house at Yari Road.

Do you feel financially secure?

I think by God’s grace I have enough to survive happily and I am content with whatever little I possess. My hard work had paid off and I am reaping the fruits of the same.

Who handles your expenses?

I do it myself.

What was your first salary? What you did with it?

Way back in 1984 I used to get 1000 rupees per episode for Ek Do Teen Chaar. I did 17 episodes and earned Rs. 17000. I don’t remember what I did with that amount.

How much money do you carry every day?

I carry Rs 5000 – 6000 along with credit cards.

Any advice for investors?

People today are smart and knowledgeable and they know the pros and cons of any scheme. I would just like to say that one shouldn’t be greedy. It’s always safe to invest in government policies rather than investing in private undertakings even if they promise you more returns. One might end up losing the principal amount in the hope of high returns. ‘Kam Khao Par Gham Mat Khao’ is my mantra.