New Delhi – Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman paid tribute to India’s rich cultural heritage on Budget Day by wearing a saree adorned with traditional Madhubani artwork.
The saree was a special gift from Padma Shri awardee Dulari Devi, a celebrated Mithila artist from Bihar.
During her visit to Madhubani for a credit outreach program at the Mithila Art Institute, Sitharaman engaged in a meaningful conversation with Dulari Devi about the legacy of Madhubani art.
Deeply moved by the artist’s dedication, the Finance Minister accepted the intricately designed saree and honored Devi’s request to wear it on the day of the Union Budget presentation.
By choosing to showcase the traditional artwork on such a significant national platform, Sitharaman reinforced the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting indigenous art forms.
The gesture highlighted the exceptional craftsmanship of artisans like Dulari Devi, whose Madhubani paintings depict rural life, mythology, and nature.
Dulari Devi, who received the Padma Shri in 2021 for her contributions to Madhubani art, has spent her life keeping the Mithila painting tradition alive.
Her work continues to inspire a new generation of artists, preserving an integral part of India’s folk art heritage.
Sitharaman’s decision to wear the saree during her Budget speech is being seen as a powerful acknowledgment of India’s diverse artistic traditions and a boost to the visibility of traditional artisans.
The move has been widely praised for bringing attention to the importance of supporting and celebrating India’s indigenous crafts.
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