Madhubani At The Heart Of Budget Day 2025 : A Seamless Blend Of Art And Politics

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On Budget Day 2025, India's Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman made a significant statement, as she made her way to the Parliament on Saturday to present the Union Budget 2025. Adorning herself with a saree intricately woven with the exquisite artistry of Madhubani, a traditional style from Bihar, Sitharaman paid tribute to Padma Shri awardee Dulari Devi. This gesture celebrated the preservation of Madhubani art and placed it at the heart of a key moment in India's political calendar.

Photo Credit: PTI

The Legacy Of Madhubani Art : A Cultural Gem

Madhubani art, originating from the Mithila region of Bihar, is renowned for its intricate geometric patterns and vibrant storytelling. Traditionally painted using natural dyes and simple tools such as twigs and matchsticks, this art form has been passed down through generations. It often tells stories of mythology, nature, and daily life, with themes ranging from gods and goddesses to the rich flora and fauna of the region.

Dulari Devi's contribution to this art form has been pivotal. Her meticulous craftsmanship, which blends the Bharni and Kachni styles of Madhubani, has helped ensure that this unique art continues to flourish. The saree that Sitharaman wore, created by Devi, is a canvas showcasing the rich narrative tradition of Madhubani.

Dulari Devi : The Artist's Journey

Dulari Devi's personal journey mirrors the resilience embedded in the art she produces. Born in 1968 in Ranti village, Bihar, Devi's early life was fraught with challenges. Raised in a humble home and married at the tender age of 12, her circumstances offered few opportunities for formal education. Nevertheless, she discovered an outlet for her creativity through painting, initially using twigs to create designs on the mud floors of her house.

Her talent was nurtured when she began working as a domestic helper in the house of other Madhubani artists, Mahasundari Devi and Karpuri Devi. It was there that she was introduced to paintbrushes and began refining her skills. Despite the social marginalisation faced by her community, the Nishad or Mallah people, Devi's dedication to her art allowed her to rise above these barriers. Today, her works are celebrated internationally and recognised for their deep connection to both tradition and innovation.

The Connection Between Sitharaman And Dulari Devi

The bond between Nirmala Sitharaman and Dulari Devi was forged during the Finance Minister's visit to the Mithila Art Institute in Madhubani. It was during this visit that Dulari Devi presented her crafted saree to Sitharaman, expressing her wish for it to be worn on a momentous occasion. When the Budget Day arrived, Sitharaman honoured this request, donning the saree as a symbol of her respect for the artist's work and the cultural heritage it represents.

Dulari Devi's achievements were further recognised in 2021 when she was awarded the prestigious Padma Shri, an acknowledgment of her significant role in preserving and evolving the art of Madhubani painting.

Honouring Tradition On A National Stage

Nirmala Sitharaman's decision to wear Dulari Devi's saree is a homage to the enduring legacy of India's traditional arts. By choosing to showcase Madhubani art on such a significant national platform, Sitharaman demonstrated the power of tradition in modern spaces. The intricate designs and vibrant colours of the saree brought the beauty of Mithila art to the forefront, introducing it to a broader audience and celebrating its relevance in contemporary India.

Photo Credit: PTI

This act also underscores the importance of preserving and promoting indigenous art forms, especially in an era of rapid modernisation. Madhubani, once confined to the homes of rural Bihar, is now recognised as a key part of India's cultural heritage, both nationally and internationally.