Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Interim Budget 2024 on February 1 wearing a blue kantha stitch sari. The intricate details on the leaf-pattern sari upheld one of the oldest embroidery arts of Bengal. My Kolkata got in touch with a few names in the fashion circuit to find out their take on the sari and what impact it could have on the textile and handloom industry with the finance minister herself adorning the heritage craft. Here’s what they had to say…
Sujata Biswas from the label ‘SuTa’
@suta_bombay/Instagram
We appreciate that during past budget speeches, Nirmala Sitharaman had mostly opted for traditional Indian saris, and this time was no different – her latest appearance for her interim budget speech saw her wearing a blue tussar sari with intricate kantha embroidery. Kantha is a centuries-old tradition of stitching together old, worn-out pieces of cloth to create items of utility. Opting for this craft on such a momentous day is a nod to the industry of women.
These endorsements of handloom crafts help to shine a public spotlight on them, giving them much-needed exposure before global audiences. We believe that the more people learn about kantha, and the tremendous industry and ingenuity that goes into the creation of each hand-made piece, the lesser the chances of such indigenous crafts fading away – which is the otherwise sad truth about many Indian crafts and weaves. Keeping these crafts in circulation encourages younger generations of artisans to continue practising them, which is especially important as many indigenous crafts are passed down within families, from one generation to another.
Shamlu Dudeja
@shamludude/Instagram
Kantha stitch started as a poor man’s running stitch. The finance minister wearing a kantha sari during the Budget is a matter of great honour for kantha artisans. This will go towards promoting the stitch further, and providing employment, as a source of self respect, to the kantha artisans.
Abhisek Roy of Bohurupi Santiniketan
Amit Pramanik/My Kolkata archive
I just loved the look – especially when she, being a powerful woman, flaunts something that is so indigenous. And it’s a great boost for not only kantha artisans, but all craftsmen of India.
Farha Khan of The Kantha Store
Soumyajit Dey/My Kolkata archive
The finance minister’s choice to wear a kantha stitch sari for such a significant event is a testament to her personal style that blends tradition with the gravitas of her office. The blue hue of the sari, accentuated by the traditional kantha stitching, reflects a connection to the heritage and artistry of India. It’s a subtle yet powerful statement of grace and confidence, befitting the occasion.
Wearing a kantha stitch sari during the budget presentation is a moment of pride for artisans across the country. She not only honoured the craft, but also cast a spotlight on India's artisanal heritage, potentially inspiring a renewed interest and appreciation for kantha work. This exposure can lead to increased demand, which in turn can provide economic support and empowerment to the artisans dedicated to preserving this traditional craft.
