Sitharaman’s red ‘Bahi Khata’ grabs attention

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is all geared up for presenting her maiden budget today in the Parliament. But more than the Union Budget 2019-20, what grabbed all the attention was the red clothed folder, 'Bahi Khata' that was witnessed being carried by the Minister.

Yes, seemingly, Sitharaman has ditched the iconic British briefcase, which her predecessors were seen carrying containing the budget.

The folder was seen tied with a golden string and embellished with the national emblem. Officials described it as the "bahi khata".

In a tweet news agency ANI said,"Chief Economic Advisor Krishnamurthy Subramanian on FM Nirmala Sitharaman keeping budget documents in four fold red cloth instead of a briefcase: It is in Indian tradition. It symbolizes our departure from slavery of Western thought. It is not a budget but a 'bahi khata'(ledger)"

Chief Economic Advisor Krishnamurthy Subramanian on FM Nirmala Sitharaman keeping budget documents in four fold red cloth instead of a briefcase: It is in Indian tradition. It symbolizes our departure from slavery of Western thought. It is not a budget but a 'bahi khata'(ledger) pic.twitter.com/ZhXdmnfbvl

— ANI (@ANI) July 5, 2019

It is noteworthy that the word "Budget" is of French origin which means "bougette" or leather bag.