Union Budget 2024: Nirmala Sitharaman, India’s first full-time woman Finance Minister, has made waves for her economic policies and distinctive style statements, particularly on Budget Day. Her choice of attire, often showcasing handloom sarees, reflects her support for local artisans and traditional craftsmanship.
Union Budget 2024
Nirmala Sitharaman, adorned in a white silk saree featuring a magenta border, posed alongside her team for the traditional ‘briefcase’ photograph outside her office. The occasion preceded her meeting with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan.
Budget 2023: A Statement of Simplicity and Elegance
In her most recent budget presentation, Nirmala Sitharaman opted for a striking red silk saree adorned with a black and gold temple border. The saree, known for its intricate design and symbolism, was complemented by minimal jewelry—a gold pendant, bangles, and a bindi. This understated yet elegant ensemble underscored the significance of the occasion, being the last full budget before the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Union Budget 2022: Embracing Cultural Diversity
During the 2022 budget session, Sitharaman arrived at Parliament draped in a rust and maroon handloom saree from Odisha, featuring delicate silver thread work along the border. This choice highlighted her appreciation for India’s rich textile heritage, amidst speculations of a Benarasi saree choice, possibly influenced by the imminent UP assembly elections.
Union Budget 2021: A Tribute to Tradition
In 2021, Sitharaman wore a vibrant red and off-white silk Pochampally saree, showcasing intricate ikat patterns on the pallu and a green border. This blend of colors and patterns celebrated the artistry of Indian handloom, reflecting her ongoing patronage of indigenous weaves.
Union Budget 2020: Colours of Prosperity
The 2020 budget session saw Sitharaman in a striking yellow-gold silk saree with a contrasting blue border and matching blouse. Yellow, symbolizing prosperity and auspiciousness in Indian culture, resonated well with the occasion, symbolizing optimism and economic growth initiatives.
Union Budget 2019: Breaking Colonial Traditions
In her maiden budget presentation in 2019, Nirmala Sitharaman made headlines not only for her policies but also for her attire—a bright pink Mangalgiri saree with a gold border. Significantly, she eschewed the colonial-era briefcase for carrying the budget papers, opting instead for a traditional ‘bahi khata’, symbolizing a departure from established norms towards embracing indigenous practices.
Nirmala Sitharaman’s unique blend of policy-making prowess and sartorial elegance has set a new precedent in Indian politics. Her consistent support for handloom sarees and local craftsmanship showcases her personal style and reinforces her commitment to promoting India’s cultural heritage on a global stage.
