The Indian-origin doll symbolises perseverance, goal-setting, and deep India-Japan cultural ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his two-day visit to Japan, was presented with a Daruma Doll by Rev Seishi Hirose, chief priest of the Shorinzan Daruma-Ji Temple. The Daruma is not just an iconic Japanese souvenir but also has roots tracing back to India through Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
According to tradition, Bodhidharma, an Indian monk from Kancheepuram, meditated facing a wall for nine years, leading to the symbolic rounded form of the doll without arms or legs. The absence of eyes also carries meaning: one eye is filled in when a goal is set, and the second eye upon its achievement.
The Daruma Doll’s design – without limbs or eyes – is inspired by Bodhidharma’s years of meditation in stillness
Daruma dolls are widely used in Japan as a goal-setting tool and a symbol of perseverance. Their weighted, rounded base makes them pop back up when tipped over, reflecting the Japanese proverb, “Fall seven times, stand up eight.” Commonly found at temples and New Year festivals, they are believed to bring good fortune, prosperity in business, success in exams, and personal growth.
During his Japan visit, PM Modi also held talks with former Japanese Prime Ministers Yoshihide Suga and Fumio Kishida. Discussions covered strengthening India-Japan ties across trade, technology, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and human resource mobility, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation.
