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On Budget Day 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman made a strong statement not just with the numbers she presented, but with the saree she wore. The beautiful Madhubani saree was a gift from Padma Shri awardee Dulari Devi, a self-taught folk artist from Bihar. This saree was hand-painted with traditional designs that tell the rich story of the Mithila region’s heritage.
The saree carried symbols like fish and lotus, representing fertility, prosperity, and hope, values that perfectly echoed the spirit of the budget. Dulari Devi spent over a month carefully painting the saree by hand on fine Bengaluru silk, creating a piece that is truly one of a kind.
This saree was more than just a garment. It stood as a tribute to Bihar’s artist community and a powerful reminder of the importance of traditional crafts in India’s culture.
Madhubani art, also known as Mithila painting, comes from the Mithila region of Bihar and parts of Nepal. It is one of the oldest forms of folk painting in India. Known for its bright colors, detailed patterns, and deep connection to nature and mythology, Madhubani art has been passed down through generations.
Traditionally, these paintings decorated walls and floors during festivals and special occasions. The artists use natural dyes and pigments made from plants, flowers, and minerals. The common themes include scenes from Hindu epics, animals, birds, flowers, and geometric shapes. What makes Madhubani art unique is its use of fine lines and intricate details, with every painting telling a meaningful story.
Over time, Madhubani art has moved beyond walls to paper, cloth, and now, beautifully painted sarees that carry the legacy of this art form wherever they go.
While Nirmala Sitharaman’s saree came directly from a gifted artist in Bihar, Anya, a studio based in Coimbatore, shares a similar passion for preserving and promoting India’s ancient handcrafted traditions.
Anya works closely with skilled artisans who bring ancient art forms like Kalamkari and Madhubani to life in contemporary fashion. Their collections honor the patience, skill, and stories woven into every thread, much like the masterpieces created by Dulari Devi.
In today’s world dominated by fast fashion, choosing hand-made textiles such as Madhubani is a meaningful choice. Anya encourages customers to appreciate the environment, preserve culture, and value the people behind these beautiful creations.
By wearing a Madhubani saree, whether gifted by an artist like Dulari Devi or carefully chosen from studios like Anya, you carry with you a tradition of skill, culture, and timeless beauty.
Disclaimer: This post is in collaboration with Anya, a platform that curates timeless finds and elegant experiences.
To view the collection, visit: https://anyaonline.in/?utm_source=theluxechronicle&utm_medium=Madhubani_Blog&utm_campaign=Anya_Madhubani_Blog_1
