New Delhi: Every year on February 1, the Finance Minister presents the Union Budget, a day when all eyes are on the financial roadmap for the country. However, since 2019, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has also captured attention for her unique saree choices. Known for her love of handloom sarees, Sitharaman’s sartorial choices have become a topic of discussion and admiration.
In 2019, Sitharaman made headlines by replacing the traditional budget briefcase with a ledger wrapped in a silk red cloth embossed with the national emblem. She presented her first budget wearing a bright pink Mangalgiri saree with a golden border. This marked the beginning of her tradition of showcasing Indian handloom sarees on budget day.
The following year, in 2020, Sitharaman chose a golden yellow silk saree with a matching blouse. The color yellow, often associated with prosperity in Indian culture, added a vibrant touch to the budget presentation. This choice was seen as a nod to the hopeful economic outlook.
In 2021, Sitharaman opted for a Pochampally silk saree in red and off-white. The saree featured an intricate Ikat pattern on the border, highlighting the craftsmanship of Pochampally weavers. Paired with a plain red blouse, the saree stood out for its elegance and cultural significance.
For the 2022 budget, Sitharaman wore a dark maroon Bomkai saree with silver thread work. Originating from Odisha, the Bomkai saree showcased the rich handloom heritage of eastern India. This choice further reinforced her commitment to promoting traditional Indian textiles.
The 2023 budget saw Sitharaman in a ruddy red saree adorned with Kasuti embroidery, a craft unique to the Dharwad region. The saree featured motifs like chariots, peacocks, and lotuses, symbolizing various cultural elements. Weighing 800 grams, the saree was a masterpiece created by Aarathi Crafts in Dharwad.
Today, as Nirmala Sitharaman heads to Rashtrapati Bhavan to meet President Droupadi Murmu before presenting the Union Budget 2024, she continues to uphold her tradition of wearing handloom sarees. This year marks her seventh consecutive budget, surpassing the late Morarji Desai’s record of six consecutive budgets. Sitharaman’s team posed for a photo opportunity with the iconic red ‘Bahi Khatha’ digital tablet, signaling the blend of tradition and modernity.
As the nation awaits changes in the income tax structure and measures to improve the ease of doing business, Sitharaman’s saree choices remain a symbol of her connection to India’s cultural heritage and her support for local artisans.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has captivated the nation not only with her financial acumen but also with her unique presentation style since 2019. Each year, she blends tradition with modernity, creating a memorable moment for the Union Budget. As she presents the Union Budget 2024, her iconic choices continue to be a topic of admiration and discussion. Biz News Business News – Personal Finance News, Share Market News, BSE/NSE News, Stock Exchange News Today
