Awakening
When Planning Wasn't Done: A Cautionary Tale
Illustrative story
An illustrative story of what the Malhotra family faced after Vikram died without a will: frozen accounts, an old LIC nominee and a property dispute.
Published: 3 Apr 2026 · Updated: 15 Oct 2026
This is an illustrative story. The people, places and figures are made up to show how planning, or not planning, can play out.
Vikram Malhotra was a successful contractor in Lucknow. He owned commercial property, a house, three cars, and had ₹65 lakhs in various bank accounts. He always said he would write a will next year. He died at 54 from a stroke.
His wife Priya discovered that the commercial property was jointly owned with Vikram's brother, who now claimed full ownership. The bank accounts were frozen for 14 months until a succession certificate was obtained. Two LIC policies worth ₹20 lakhs had Vikram's deceased father as nominee.
Six years later, the family has spent ₹18 lakhs in legal fees, lost access to ₹35 lakhs in unclaimed insurance, and the commercial property dispute is still in court. Priya works part-time to supplement the family income. All of this was preventable with a will and an updated asset list.
General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Laws and rules change, so check with a qualified lawyer or CA before you act.
