On February 1, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu upheld a cherished tradition by offering Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman 'dahi-cheeni' (curd and sugar) before she presented the Union Budget 2026 in Parliament. This ritual, deeply embedded in Indian culture, symbolizes an auspicious beginning and the promise of a successful endeavor.
Ahead of presenting her ninth consecutive budget, Sitharaman met with President Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where the President performed the customary good-luck gesture. Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary was also present during the meeting. Sitharaman was seen discussing the key elements of the budget proposals with the President.
The tradition of offering 'dahi-cheeni' before important events is a common practice in many Indian households. It is believed that curd represents the moon, symbolizing calmness and promoting success. The combination of curd and sugar signifies balance and purity, with curd representing purity and sugar symbolizing prosperity. Some also believe that Lord Shiva is fond of 'dahi-cheeni', and consuming it before stepping out is a way to seek his blessings.
From an astrological perspective, consuming 'dahi-cheeni' before important events is considered lucky. Vedic astrology associates the moon with the mind and emotions, and consuming dairy products like curd is thought to appease the moon, bringing clarity and emotional balance. The combination of cool (yogurt) and warm (sugar) is believed to create a balance of energies, aligning with the cosmic balance. Some astrological beliefs suggest that eating 'dahi-cheeni' can help ward off negative planetary influences, ensuring a smooth start to important tasks. 'Dahi-cheeni' symbolizes a combination of the Moon and Jupiter, astrological forces that, when combined, form the auspicious Gaja Kesari yoga.
Beyond its cultural and astrological significance, there are also scientific reasons for this tradition. Meeting new challenges requires high physical and mental energy. The mixture of curd and sugar provides a rapid source of glucose, fueling the body and providing instant energy. Curd is also a superfood, containing high levels of protein, calcium, riboflavin, and vitamins B6 and B12, providing essential nutrients for overall health. According to Ayurveda, curd acts as a natural coolant, keeping the mind and body cool.
As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepared to present her ninth Union Budget, she continued another tradition by choosing a handloom saree for the occasion. This year, she wore a handwoven Kanjeevaram silk saree. The garment, linked to Tamil Nadu's weaving practices, carried intricate embroidery with a traditional border. The saree's design highlighted India's textile heritage and respect for local artisans, reflecting the strength of regional crafts. Sitharaman's choice of attire aligns with the government's "Vocal for Local" initiative, supporting artisan communities and promoting India's traditional textiles.
The Union Budget 2026 is expected to unveil measures to sustain growth momentum, maintain fiscal discipline, and announce reforms that could buffer the economy from global trade frictions. It is more than a statement of government expenditure, reflecting the aspirations of millions of Indians and outlining the nation's future financial roadmap. The presentation of the budget on February 1, 2026, marked the first time in independent India's history that the Budget was presented on a Sunday.
