The budget is not just about numbers, deficits and tax calculations. Every year on the day of the Union Budget, another topic also remains at the centre of discussion. That is Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's saree. The saree she wears while entering the Lok Sabha to present the Union Budget seems to draw special attention.
Along with the budget papers, her saree also becomes the day's attraction.
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Nirmala Sitharaman will begin presenting the budget in the Lok Sabha at 11 AM on Sunday. This will be her ninth consecutive budget. Alongside revenue estimates, expenditure plans and fiscal discipline, her presence on budget day gains special importance for her saree as well.
Year after year, she deliberately chooses handloom sarees to showcase the country's traditional textiles and craftsmanship on the national stage. This is also done in line with the central government's 'Vocal for Local' philosophy. the country's traditional textiles and craftsmanship on the national stage. This is also done in line with the central government's 'Vocal for Local' philosophy.
This year on budget day, she chose a Kanjivaram saree from Tamil Nadu. This deep maroon Kanjivaram saree had a contrast border and light golden work. She paired it with a yellow blouse. The saree's colour and design together created an elegant yet strong presence.
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Last year, during the budget, she wore an off-white saree with Madhubani fish design embroidery. That saree was a gift from Bihar's Padma Shri recipient artist Dulari Devi. With a red blouse, that saree brought Bihar's folk art into national discussion. It was not just clothing, but through that saree, a regional art form was also highlighted.
Over the past few years, Nirmala Sitharaman's saree selection on budget day has become a kind of silent tradition. In every budget, she tries to bring India's handloom, regional textiles and artisans' work into the spotlight. As a result, alongside the budget's economic announcements, her saree also becomes part of the story.
