Are you searching for mutual funds that have given strong and steady returns over the long term? If yes, then this article is for you. In India, many investors chase quick profits, but the truth is — real wealth is created through patience, discipline, and smart investing. Mutual funds, especially equity mutual funds, have proven to be powerful tools for building long-term wealth when invested in the right way.
In this article, we are going to highlight 10 mutual funds that have turned a simple investment of ₹1 lakh into more than ₹10 lakhs over a period of 15 years. These funds have given annualised returns between 17.5% to 20%, which is much higher than traditional investment options like FDs or PPF. This performance shows the real magic of compounding and how professional fund management can make a big difference.
Whether you are just starting your investment journey or already have experience, this list will give you insights into funds that have delivered consistent performance. You will also learn why these funds performed well, what kind of stocks they invested in, and how long-term investing can help you achieve your financial goals. So, let’s dive in and find out which mutual funds created wealth and if they can be a part of your portfolio too.
Overview of Contents
📈 Top 10 Mutual Funds That Turned ₹1 Lakh Into Over ₹10 Lakhs in 15 Years
Here is a list of 10 mutual fund schemes that have delivered exceptional long-term performance. These funds turned an investment of ₹1 lakh into ₹10–14.5 lakhs over the past 15 years — proving the true potential of equity mutual funds and disciplined investing.
| Mutual Fund Scheme | 15-Year CAGR (%) | ₹1 Lakh Became (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| SBI Small Cap Fund | 20.12% | ₹14.55 Lakhs |
| Mirae Asset Large & Midcap Fund | 19.44% | ₹12.90 Lakhs |
| HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund | 18.72% | ₹11.71 Lakhs |
| Edelweiss Mid Cap Fund | 18.52% | ₹11.44 Lakhs |
| Invesco India Mid Cap Fund | 18.50% | ₹11.41 Lakhs |
| ICICI Prudential Technology Fund | 18.24% | ₹11.06 Lakhs |
| DSP Small Cap Fund | 18.11% | ₹10.90 Lakhs |
| Franklin India Smaller Companies Fund | 18.05% | ₹10.82 Lakhs |
| Quant Small Cap Fund | 17.93% | ₹10.67 Lakhs |
| Franklin Build India Fund | 17.68% | ₹10.37 Lakhs |
Mirae Asset Large & Midcap Fund
Category: Large & Midcap
A balanced mutual fund that combines the stability of large caps with the growth potential of midcaps. Its steady performance and moderate risk make it ideal for long-term investors.
Returns:
- 3-Year: 16.36%
- 5-Year: 22.04%
- 10-Year: 16.69%
- 15-Year: 19.44%
✅ Positives:
- Balanced exposure to large and midcap
- Lower volatility
⚠️ Risks:
- May underperform in extreme bull runs due to diversified strategy
HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund
Category: Mid Cap
One of the most popular mid-cap funds with a strong track record. It offers exposure to growing mid-sized companies and is well-suited for investors seeking higher returns over a longer horizon.
Returns:
- 3-Year: 27.64%
- 5-Year: 31.34%
- 10-Year: 17.36%
- 15-Year: 18.72%
✅ Positives:
- Strong midcap allocation
- Impressive recent performance
⚠️ Risks:
- Higher AUM can affect agility
SBI Small Cap Fund
Category: Small Cap
A top-performing small cap fund known for its long-term wealth creation ability. With a CAGR of 20.12% over 15 years, it rewards patient investors and offers excellent growth potential through quality small-cap stocks.
Returns:
- 3-Year: 18.26%
- 5-Year: 27.70%
- 10-Year: 18.01%
- 15-Year: 20.12%
✅ Positives:
- Long-term wealth creation
- Diversified stock picks
- Experienced fund managers
⚠️ Risks:
- High volatility in corrections
- Not suitable for short-term goals
Edelweiss Mid Cap Fund
Category: Mid Cap
A momentum-driven fund that targets high-growth midcap stocks. It has delivered solid returns over the years, although it may be volatile in the short term.
Returns:
- 3-Year: 25.62%
- 5-Year: 31.14%
- 10-Year: 17.13%
- 15-Year: 18.52%
✅ Positives:
- Strong momentum-based strategy
⚠️ Risks:
- Aggressive bets can lead to short-term underperformance
Invesco India Mid Cap Fund
Category: Mid Cap
Known for its consistent performance and diversified midcap portfolio. It’s a good choice for investors looking to benefit from India’s mid-sized businesses.
Returns:
- 3-Year: 28.70%
- 5-Year: 29.35%
- 10-Year: 17.35%
- 15-Year: 18.50%
✅ Positives:
- Consistent outperformance
- Well-diversified portfolio
⚠️ Risks:
- Smaller AUM, potential liquidity issues during stress periods
DSP Small Cap Fund
Category: Small Cap
A strong contender in the small-cap space, known for smart stock selection and long-term wealth creation. Suitable for investors with a high-risk appetite.
Returns:
- 3-Year: 22.13%
- 5-Year: 31.14%
- 10-Year: 16.72%
- 15-Year: 18.11%
✅ Positives:
- Robust small-cap stock universe
- Quality stock selection
⚠️ Risks:
- High volatility
- Illiquidity in downturns
Quant Small Cap Fund
Category: Small Cap
An aggressive and fast-moving fund with high returns in recent years. Best suited for experienced investors willing to handle high risk for high reward.
Returns:
- 3-Year: 27.22%
- 5-Year: 38.38%
- 10-Year: 19.58%
- 15-Year: 17.93%
✅ Positives:
- Aggressive high-beta strategy
- Strong recent performance
⚠️ Risks:
- High risk and concentrated positions
- Governance concerns (2023 front-running probe)
Franklin Build India Fund
Category: Thematic – Infrastructure
A thematic fund focused on infrastructure, ideal for those who want to invest in India’s development story. Offers good returns but comes with sector-specific risks.
Returns:
- 3-Year: 30.02%
- 5-Year: 33.46%
- 10-Year: 16.60%
- 15-Year: 17.68%
✅ Positives:
- Infrastructure-focused play
- Aligns with India’s long-term growth story
⚠️ Risks:
- Sector cycles
- Lower diversification
ICICI Prudential Technology Fund
Category: Sectoral – Technology
This tech-focused fund offers exposure to India’s booming digital and IT sector. Ideal for aggressive investors who believe in the long-term potential of technology companies.
Returns:
- 3-Year: 13.41%
- 5-Year: 23.39%
- 10-Year: 16.73%
- 15-Year: 18.24%
✅ Positives:
- Focused exposure to fast-growing tech sector
⚠️ Risks:
- Sector-specific risks
- Cyclical performance trends
Franklin India Smaller Companies Fund
Category: Small Cap
This fund has a long history of stable performance in the small-cap segment. It provides deep market exposure but needs monitoring due to past fund house issues.
Returns:
- 3-Year: 25.32%
- 5-Year: 32.94%
- 10-Year: 15.75%
- 15-Year: 18.05%
✅ Positives:
- Consistent historical performance
- Strong mid-small cap exposure
⚠️ Risks:
- AMC’s past liquidity challenges need tracking
📊 How We Selected These Mutual Funds
These mutual funds were selected based on their consistent long-term performance, particularly their 15-year CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate). We also considered fund stability, fund house reputation, risk-adjusted returns, and portfolio quality. These funds have proven their ability to deliver wealth through various market cycles, making them ideal for long-term investors.
🧠 What Does This Teach Us About Long-Term Investing?
The journey from ₹1 Lakh to over ₹10 Lakhs is not just about selecting the right fund — it’s also about staying invested. These examples highlight the power of compounding, patience, and discipline. Investors who stayed invested through market ups and downs reaped massive rewards. It’s a reminder that time in the market is more important than timing the market.
📌 Should You Invest in These Funds Now?
While past performance doesn’t guarantee future results, these funds still hold strong fundamentals and growth potential. However, investment decisions should be based on your personal financial goals, risk appetite, and time horizon. Consider consulting with a financial advisor before investing.
📚 Conclusion
The mutual funds listed above are living proof that long-term investing pays off. They turned ₹1 Lakh into ₹10+ Lakhs not overnight, but over 15 years of compounding and discipline. If you’re ready to commit to your financial future, start early, stay invested, and choose funds with strong long-term track records.