How to Become a Crorepati with Minimum Investment Using the 15x15x15 Rule

Becoming a crorepati in India no longer requires a huge inheritance or a high-paying job. With smart investing, discipline, and time on your side, you can build wealth steadily — even with a modest income. One of the most talked-about strategies in the world of mutual fund investing is the 15x15x15 rule, which has helped lakhs of Indian investors achieve long-term financial goals through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs).

Let’s understand how this rule works, why it’s so effective, and how you can start using it today.

What is the 15x15x15 Rule in SIP Investing?

The 15x15x15 rule is a simple formula: invest ₹15,000 every month for 15 years, and expect an average return of 15% per annum. This rule is rooted in the power of compound interest — where not just your principal, but also the returns earned are reinvested and grow over time.

Here’s what it looks like in numbers:

Over 15 years, your total investment will be ₹27 lakhs. But due to compounding, the value grows to over ₹1 crore — a profit of nearly ₹74 lakhs. The real magic happens when you stay invested longer. If you continue for another 15 years without investing anything additional, the same amount can grow to ₹10 crores.

Why SIP is the Best Method for Long-Term Mutual Fund Investment

A Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is a disciplined way to invest a fixed amount in mutual funds every month. It works like a recurring deposit — but in equity or hybrid mutual funds, which have the potential to offer higher long-term returns.
According to data from AMFI (Association of Mutual Funds in India), Indian mutual funds have over 5.84 crore SIP accounts, and monthly SIP inflows have crossed ₹13,000 crore in recent months. This surge in interest is because SIPs allow investors to invest without worrying about market volatility.
When markets are down, you accumulate more mutual fund units. When markets rise, your units gain value. This is known as rupee cost averaging, and it’s one of the biggest advantages of SIPs.

The Power of Compounding: Small Amounts, Big Results

To illustrate compounding, Nippon India Mutual Fund explains that the returns earned in one period are reinvested and generate returns in the next — and this cycle keeps repeating. That’s how a ₹15,000 SIP for 15 years turns into over ₹1 crore. Extend this period by another 15 years, and the same ₹1 crore could grow to nearly ₹10 crore.

Even smaller SIPs can yield impressive returns, as shown below:

You don’t need to start with ₹15,000. Start with what you can, and increase your SIP gradually every year.

Best Mutual Fund Types to Apply the 15x15x15 Rule

For long-term SIPs, equity mutual funds are the most suitable, as they offer higher return potential compared to debt or hybrid funds. Within equities, the following categories are ideal:

• Flexi Cap Funds: Diversify across large-, mid-, and small-cap stocks.
• Large Cap Funds: Lower volatility, suitable for conservative investors.
• Small Cap Funds: Higher growth, suitable for aggressive investors.
• ELSS (Equity Linked Saving Scheme): Offers tax-saving benefits under Section 80C.

Some of the best-performing funds (as of 2025) to consider include:

Tips to Maximize SIP Returns

While SIPs are convenient and long-term focused, you can make the most of them by following a few principles:
Avoid Timing the Market: SIPs work best when done regularly, regardless of market cycles.
Start Early: The earlier you start, the more you benefit from compounding.
Be Consistent: Never skip SIPs — even when markets fall.
Review Annually: Monitor fund performance and rebalance if needed.
Top-up SIPs: Increase your monthly SIP amount by 10% each year as your income grows.

The 15x15x15 Rule is Your Shortcut to ₹1 Crore

The idea of becoming a crorepati in India is often seen as distant or difficult. But with the 15x15x15 formula — ₹15,000 per month for 15 years at 15% returns — it becomes a realistic, achievable goal. This method is ideal for salaried professionals, freelancers, and business owners who want to build long-term wealth without taking unnecessary risks.
By using SIPs in mutual funds, investors not only benefit from compound interest but also gain from market volatility through rupee cost averaging. It’s time to stop waiting and start investing.

💡 Ready to begin?
Use a SIP calculator to estimate your returns and choose the best SIP plan for your financial goals.