The union budget presented by the finance minister of our country is a significant event as it determines the financial road map of the country as well as it denotes the symbolic elements reflecting the historical as well as cultural values of our nation.
The first full-time female finance minister of our nation, Nirmala Sitharaman, carried a bahi khata instead of the traditional briefcase on budget presentation day in 2019. She made a statement by carrying it as it stood as a symbol of moving away and breaking the norm of carrying an old age tradition.
An explanation of the term “Bahi Khata” in the context of the Union Budget 2025
What is a Bahi Khata?
A bahi khata is basically a traditional ledger used for the purpose of record keeping and accounting by Indians. Nirmala Sitharaman, the current finance minister of India has carried it in a clad of red cloth. The red cloth in which the budget is wrapped symbolizes accountability discipline and a deep respect for the financial process.
The traditional Ledger keeps a record of financial transactions and dealing The term bahi khata has been derived from Hindi words which can be translated as bahi, means ‘book’ and khata means ‘ account’. Traditionally, a Bahi Khata contained handwritten entries in a distinct ledger format.
Possible causes of sudden switch away
Many experts believe that this sudden switch away from the humble briefcase symbolizes the departure of our nation from colonial era practices like carrying a red briefcase which was traditionally inherited from the britishers. When the finance minister of our nation was spotted at the parliament house carrying the traditional Indian Ledger. It marked a shift towards Indianizing the budget presentation.
To carry and present the union budget of India in a bahi khata symbolizes a shift from colonial practice. It also stands as a symbol of embracing Indian heritage. It also symbolizes the financial inclusion of our nation.
Significance of bahi khata
- It symbolises the rich cultural heritage of our nation. In the modern world, it stands as a strong epitome of traditional practices in the financial realm.
- It denotes simplicity and transparency.
- Small business owners and traders can easily relate to it while using this traditional accounting method. This also makes union budget relatable to grassroots levels.
- It stands as a strong symbol of moving away and breaking the colonial legacy.
Presentation of Bahi Khata
It is presented in a simple red cloth which stands a symbol of traditional ledger. This is adorned with the national emblem in gold. The documents are placed inside this bahi khata safely. As a part of this new tradition, the finance minister of our nation carries it to Parliament. It symbolises reverence and respect to the financial plans of our nation.
Conclusion
With the advent of bahi khata in the Union budget of 2019, a rich blend of traditional practises and modern touch can be noticed. It stands as a symbol of accountability, respect for cultural identity and inclusivity. Bahi khata is a term which is commonly used by laymen to which they can relate to. In the modern time, this term has become synonymous to the symbolic representation of the union budget of our nation signifying the economic prosperity as well as a tribute to the rich culture of our modern nation.
