New Delhi: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is poised to make history as she presents the Union Budget 2026-27 in the Lok Sabha at 11 am on Sunday.
This marks her ninth consecutive budget presentation since assuming office in 2019, establishing a new record for the longest continuous tenure of delivering Union Budgets by any Finance Minister in independent India’s history. The presentation on a Sunday is unprecedented in post-independence India, breaking from the traditional practice of weekday or occasional Saturday deliveries.
Amid the anticipation for economic policies Sitharaman’s Budget Day appearance also draws attention for her choice of attire, showcasing India’s textile heritage and traditional weaves and fabrics. Continuing her customary practice, she wore a vibrant magenta Kattam Kanjeevaram (Kancheepuram) silk saree from Tamil Nadu, featuring a checked (kattam) pattern, and coffee-brown border with intricate threadwork. The pallu stood out with a mustard-gold panel. She paired it with a plain yellow-coloured, full-hand blouse.
Kanjeevaram sarees are exquisite handwoven silk garments originating from the historic town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, India. These sarees are crafted from pure mulberry silk, renowned for its luxurious luster, durability, and rich texture, often enhanced with intricate zari work using genuine gold or silver threads.
Her choice of attire also assumes significance since Tamil Nadu is set to go to the polls later this year, where the BJP will hope to form its first government in the southern state.
Before heading to Kartavya Bhavan carrying her signature digital bahi-khata, a tablet enclosed in red cloth adorned with a golden national emblem, the Finance Minister began her day with a meaningful traditional ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. There, President Droupadi Murmu warmly welcomed her and offered dahi-cheeni (curd mixed with sugar), an auspicious gesture symbolising good luck and a positive start to the significant occasion of presenting the Union Budget.
“Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt Nirmala Sitharaman along with Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary and senior officials of the Ministry of Finance called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan before presenting the Union Budget. The President extended her best wishes to the Union Finance Minister and her team for the presentation of Budget,” the President’s office posted on X.
