Does it feel heavy? Yes. But realistically, the inflation rate in India is high, so the 'real' value of your fixed EMI decreases every year as your salary increases. In 5 years, a 40k EMI will feel like pocket change compared to what you’ll be earning.

The secret they don't tell you: Be aggressive with pre-payments in the first 3 years. After that, your salary usually hits a point where investing (SIPs, stocks) provides better returns than paying off 10% interest debt. It’s a math game, not an emotional one

Has the salary growth made it easier? Absolutely. The first year was brutal, but year 3 brought a 30% hike. I’m currently putting every single penny of that hike into the principal. It’s not about saving right now; it’s about liquidating the liability.

I’m currently in year 2 of my repayment. Yes, the EMI feels heavy, and yes, I can’t invest in the stock market like my friends who didn't take loans. But looking at the growth in my peer group, the MBA gave me access to industries I’d never have touched otherwise. The debt is just the cost of entry

Don't fall into the I make 15 LPA, I can afford an expensive apartment trap. The biggest mistake peers make is lifestyle inflation immediately after landing the job. Keep your rent low for the first 3 years and you will crush that loan

I finished my loan in 4 years. The trick wasn't earning more; it was keeping my lifestyle the same as it was when I was a student for those first 24 months. It’s painful, but the feeling of being debt-free by age 28 is worth it