PM Modi Receives Cultural Gift: The Daruma Doll, Symbolizing Luck and Perseverance with Indian Connections
During his two-day visit to Japan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was gifted a Daruma Doll by Rev. Seishi Hirose, the Chief Priest of the Shorinzan Daruma-Ji Temple. This iconic Japanese good-luck charm carries a deep cultural and spiritual significance, as it symbolizes perseverance, determination, and a strong connection to Indian roots.
What is a Daruma Doll?
The Daruma Doll is a hollow, round-shaped doll with no limbs or eyes, giving it a distinct, minimalist design. It is traditionally viewed as a symbol of good luck and resilience. According to Japanese tradition, people color one eye of the doll before setting a personal goal. The second eye remains blank until the goal is achieved, reminding the owner to stay focused and keep working toward their objective.
A Gift with Indian Connections
Though the Daruma Doll is a well-known part of Japanese culture, it also has strong roots in India. The doll is inspired by Bodhidharma, an Indian monk from Kancheepuram, who is revered in Japan as Daruma Daishi. Bodhidharma is known for his intense meditation and perseverance, famously meditating facing a wall for nine years with his limbs folded. This is why the Daruma Doll has no limbs and represents the monk’s commitment to inner focus and perseverance.
PM Modi, in his social media post, expressed his gratitude to the Chief Priest for the thoughtful gift, stating:
“It was an honour to meet Rev. Seishi Hirose, Chief Priest of Shorinzan Daruma-Ji Temple in Takasaki-Gunma. My gratitude to him for presenting a Daruma Doll. Daruma is considered to be an important cultural symbol in Japan and also has a connection with India.”
The Symbolism of the Daruma Doll
In Japan, the Daruma Doll is associated with the phrase “fall down seven times, get up eight”, signifying the importance of persistence and resilience in life. It encourages individuals to overcome obstacles and continue striving toward their goals. The Daruma Doll, thus, serves as a constant reminder to persevere, no matter the challenges faced.
Significance of the Gift for PM Modi
This gift carries both personal and cultural significance, as it represents not only Japan’s rich spiritual heritage but also a link to India’s deep spiritual traditions. During his visit to Japan, PM Modi met with former Japanese Prime Ministers Yoshihide Suga and Fumio Kishida in Tokyo. The discussions focused on strengthening India-Japan relations in areas such as technology, artificial intelligence, and trade.
How Does the Daruma Doll Relate to PM Modi’s Visit?
The Daruma Doll gift signifies the enduring relationship between India and Japan. PM Modi’s visit further strengthens these ties, with cooperation in various sectors being a key part of the discussions. The symbolism of perseverance associated with the Daruma Doll also aligns with the spirit of cooperation and commitment that defines the growing India-Japan partnership.
A Meaningful Gift with Deep Cultural Significance
The Daruma Doll not only serves as a good-luck charm but also carries profound cultural, spiritual, and historical significance that bridges the gap between India and Japan. It’s a beautiful representation of how cultures can intertwine through symbolic gestures like this one.
