Nirmala Sitharaman poses with her team ahead of Budget speech

NEW DELHI: Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget for the financial year 2026–27 in the Lok Sabha at 11 am today, marking her ninth consecutive Budget.While the focus will firmly remain on the government’s revenue projections, fiscal discipline and spending priorities, Sitharaman’s Budget Day appearance also draws attention for another reason: her saree. Over the years, the finance minister has made it a point to wear handloom sarees, using the high-visibility Budget presentation to spotlight country’s traditional textiles and artisan communities, in line with the government’s “Vocal for Local” push.This year, Sitharaman opted for a deep maroon Kanjeevaram saree from Tamil Nadu. The saree featured a deep maroon base with a contrasting border and subtle gold detailing, paired with a yellow blouse.Last year, Sitharaman had worn an off-white saree featuring Madhubani fish embroidery, gifted by Padma Shri awardee Dulari Devi of Bihar. Paired with a red blouse, the saree highlighted Bihar’s folk art tradition and brought national attention to a regional craft form.Across successive Budgets, Sitharaman’s saree choices have evolved into a quiet tradition, one that brings focus on Indian handlooms and regional textiles while keeping the focus firmly on the Budget itself.