Amroha artist honors Finance Minister during historic ninth budget presentation

In a remarkable tribute to India’s financial milestone, charcoal artist Zuhaib Khan from Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, has captured the essence of Union Budget 2026 through his art. As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stepped into the Lok Sabha to present her ninth consecutive budget, Khan unveiled a detailed portrait that symbolizes the nation’s economic journey and governance.

The artwork prominently features a black-and-white sketch of the Finance Minister in her iconic style. She is depicted holding the famous red folder, known as the "bahi-khata," which now houses the digital tablet for the government’s paperless budget initiative. Beyond the portrait, the artist integrated various themes reflecting national priorities, such as the gold rupee coin, agricultural growth, defense strength, and urban development.

This budget marks a significant moment in Indian political history. By presenting the Union Budget 2026, Nirmala Sitharaman has equaled the record set by P. Chidambaram for the most consecutive budget presentations. The day began with traditional customs at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where President Droupadi Murmu offered 'dahi-cheeni' to the Finance Minister, symbolizing good luck for the task ahead.

Dressed in a beautiful handwoven Kancheevaram silk saree, Sitharaman briefed the President on the budget’s core proposals before heading to Parliament. The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officially approved the Union Budget 2026-27 shortly after.

For the people of Odisha and the rest of India, the budget represents a vision for financial inclusion. Khan’s charcoal sketch serves as a creative bridge between the technicalities of economic policy and the cultural pride of the Indian people, celebrating both the leader and the landmark event.

With Agency Inputs and Image Source: ANI