Do you know about the unique and sweet tradition of the Ministry of Finance – Halwa Celebrations? This ritual occurs a week before the Union Budget is presented, indicating the final stage of preparation for the annual financial presentation. On 1 February 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitarman Modi will present the second full budget of the 3.0 government, but before that, a formal pudding is cooked and served, marking a significant moment in the budgetary process.
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Halwa is a popular Indian dessert.
What is the pudding ceremony before the Union Budget?
The Halwa ceremony is a unique tradition observed by the Finance Ministry in India. The event includes preparations for a large batch of a favorite Indian dessert Halwa within the kitchen of the ministry. The Finance Minister inaugurated the ceremony by shaking the pudding in a large hard work (PAN), which is a gesture of the beginning of the final phase of the budget preparation. After this, pudding is distributed to officers and members of the employees, who are tirelessly trying to keep the budget together.
The choice of a melodious dish pudding, shows the tradition in Indian culture that start any important or auspicious event with some sweet. It is seen as a way to ensure that the results of the event will be rich and successful. The warm, rich taste of pudding made from ingredients such as ghee, sugar and flour adds a touch of sweetness in the acute and high-day process that is preparing the Union Budget.
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Lock-in period in budget preparation
Once the pudding is served and the function is finished, a significant phase begins. Officers involved in preparing the budget draft enter a ‘lock-in’ period, during which they are cut off from the outside world. They remain limited to the northern block complex, ensuring that there is no external communication.
The pudding function serves as a reminder that even the most severe cases often begin with a touch of sweetness.