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Poetry in Budgets: A Growing Tradition

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  Published in Business and Finance on Monday, January 26th 2026 at 3:22 GMT by Business Today
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A History of Poetic Budgetary Addresses

The inclusion of verse isn't a novel development in Indian budgetary history. Yashwant Sinha, during his 1998 budget speech, skillfully employed a couplet from the celebrated Urdu poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz. The chosen lines served to underscore the critical need for social justice, illustrating how poetry can be used to contextualize and amplify the budget's underlying principles. Similarly, in 2017, Arun Jaitley drew inspiration from Hindi poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, utilizing his work to highlight the virtues of diligence and perseverance - values often crucial for economic progress. These instances, combined with Sitharaman's 2026 inclusion of Tagore, illustrate a conscious effort to move beyond purely technical explanations.

Beyond Numbers: The Purpose of Poetry in Budgets

Why the shift towards incorporating poetry? While seemingly unconventional, the practice serves several important functions. Primarily, it's an attempt to broaden the audience's engagement with the budget. Economic terminology and complex data can be alienating for the average citizen. Poetry, with its ability to evoke emotion and create imagery, offers a more accessible pathway to understanding the core message. A few carefully selected lines can distill complex concepts into something relatable and memorable.

Economists note that poetry transcends mere data presentation. A single, powerful line from a poet can carry more weight and convey a deeper message than pages of statistics. It adds layers of meaning, drawing on India's rich literary heritage to contextualize the economic policies being presented. The inclusion of poetry isn't about softening the impact of potentially difficult policy decisions, but rather about framing them within a broader cultural understanding.

From Technical Jargon to Accessible Communication

The tradition of incorporating poetry reflects a larger evolution in how economic policy is communicated. Historically, budget speeches were largely perceived as technical documents intended for a specialized audience - economists, policymakers, and financial analysts. The focus was on detailed figures, projections, and specific legislative changes. However, a growing awareness of the importance of public understanding has spurred a change in approach. Governments now recognize the need to connect with the broader public and ensure that economic policies are understood and accepted by all citizens.

This shift isn't simply about simplification; it's about building trust and fostering a sense of shared ownership in the nation's economic direction. By drawing on the power of poetry, the government aims to bridge the gap between the often-intimidating world of economics and the everyday lives of ordinary people. It's an acknowledgment that communicating complex economic realities requires more than just numbers; it requires artistry, cultural awareness, and a genuine effort to connect with the heart of the nation. The trend signifies a movement towards greater transparency and a more inclusive approach to economic policy making, ensuring that the budget isn't just a document for specialists, but a message for all Indians.