Daruma Doll
Why it Matters?
On the inaugural day of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Japan, Rev Seishi Hirose, chief priest of the Shorinzan Darumaji Temple in Takasaki, presented him with a Daruma Doll.
What You Should Know?
The name “Daruma” derives from the Sanskrit word Dharma.
The Shorinzan Darumaji Temple, built in 1697, is the historic centre for Daruma dolls.
Daruma dolls are traditional Japanese wish dolls made of papier-mâche.
The Daruma doll is modelled after Bodhidharma, a 5th-century Indian monk from Kancheepuram.
Kancheepuram is known in Japan as Daruma Daishi, who founded Zen Buddhism.
The doll symbolizes perseverance, good luck, and goal achievement.
Traditionally, one eye is coloured when setting a goal, and the other upon its fulfilment, representing resilience.
Its rounded bottom allows it to return upright if tipped over, reflecting the Japanese saying: “Fall seven times, stand up eight.
They are commonly gifted or used during exams, business ventures, and personal milestones.