Nirmala Sitharaman’s Saree Choice for Budget 2025: A Tribute to Madhubani Art

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 1st Feb. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s attire on Budget day has consistently drawn attention over the past seven years, with each saree narrating a unique story. This year, as she presented her record eighth consecutive Budget, Sitharaman draped an off-white handloom silk saree adorned with fish-themed embroidery and a golden border—a tribute to the renowned Madhubani art of Bihar.

The saree was crafted by Padma awardee Dulari Devi, a celebrated artist known for her contributions to Madhubani painting. This traditional folk art from the Mithila region is recognized for its intricate designs, symbolic representations, and vibrant colours. Having faced numerous hardships in life, Dulari Devi has utilized her artistry to spread awareness on social issues such as child marriage, AIDS, and female foeticide. Her works have been showcased in over 50 exhibitions, with more than 10,000 paintings to her credit.

Sitharaman posed for the customary ‘briefcase’ photo outside her North Block office, donning the exquisite saree before heading to meet the President. Her choice of attire on Budget day has evolved over the years, often reflecting cultural heritage and craftsmanship.

In 2019, during her first Budget presentation, Sitharaman opted for a simple pink Mangalgiri saree with a gold border and replaced the traditional leather briefcase with a ‘bahi-khata’ wrapped in a red cloth. In 2020, she wore a bright yellow-gold silk saree, followed by a red and off-white Pochampally ikat saree from Telangana in 2021. The following year, she chose a rust brown Bomkai saree, a traditional weave from Odisha.

In 2023, Sitharaman presented the Budget wearing a red and black temple border saree featuring Kasuti threadwork. Last year, she draped a blue tussar silk saree adorned with kantha handiwork, highlighting the fabric’s rich texture and golden sheen.

With this year’s Budget, Sitharaman matches the record of eight consecutive Budget presentations, a distinction previously held by no other finance minister. The late Morarji Desai, who presented 10 Budgets, did not do so in consecutive years. Former Finance Minister P. Chidambaram has delivered nine Budgets.