PM Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Japan. He was gifted a unique Daruma Doll by Chief Priest of the Shorinzan Daruma-Ji Temple, Rev Seishi Hirose. The doll, a cultural symbol, a good-luck charm and a popular souvenir of Japan, also has strong roots in India. Here’s why!
Japan Gifts Daruma Doll To PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was recently gifted a very unique doll during his two-day visit to Japan. A Daruma Doll, considered one of Japan’s most iconic good luck charms, was presented by the Chief Priest of Shorinzan Daruma-Ji Temple. This doll is hollow, round, and has no limbs or eyes, giving it a very distinctive appearance.
The photos were also posted by PM Modi on his official X account. He wrote, “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 connect with India. It is influenced by Bodhidharma, a noted monk.”
As per a report by News18, though it is seen as a lucky charm in Japan, the Daruma Doll also has roots in India. It is inspired by Bodhidharma, an Indian monk from Kancheepuram who is revered in Japan as Daruma Daishi. According to records, Bodhidharma once meditated facing a wall for nine years with folded limbs. That is why the doll is round in shape and has no limbs or even eyes.
Also Read: PM Modi Likely To Inaugurate 51.38 Km Bairabi-Sairang Rail Project, Boosting Connectivity In Mizoram
A Gift With A Deeper Meaning
As per a report by Hindustan Times, in Japan, the doll is believed to bring good luck. It represents the Japanese saying ‘fall down seven times, get up eight’. Traditionally, people in Japan colour one eye of the doll before setting a personal goal. The other eye remains blank until the goal is achieved. This acts as a reminder to keep working hard towards one’s goals in life.
Gifting this to PM Modi is quite significant. The doll is not only a symbol of Japan but also has its roots in India. During his official visit to Japan, PM Modi also met with former Japanese Prime Ministers Yoshihide Suga and Fumio Kishida in Tokyo. They discussed ways to strengthen India-Japan cooperation in technology, AI, trade, and more.
Also Read: Chai Pe Charcha In England: PM Modi And UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Bond Over Masala Chai
Have you ever seen a Daruma Doll? Did you know about its significance? Tell us what you think about this unique and special gift to PM Modi.
Cover Image Courtesy: @narendramodi/ X
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.