During his two-day official visit to Japan for the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a Daruma doll as a gift, presented by Rev. Seishi Hirose, the Chief Priest of Darumaji Temple. This traditional Japanese doll is more than just a cultural artifact; it's a symbol deeply intertwined with the historical and spiritual connections between India and Japan.

The Daruma doll is one of Japan's most recognizable cultural symbols. Modelled after Bodhidharma, the Indian monk who is credited as the founder of Zen Buddhism, the doll represents perseverance, resilience, good fortune, and the achievement of goals. The doll is typically round, hollow, and painted in bright red and gold. Its distinctive design and symbolism make it a popular souvenir and a meaningful gift.

The link between the Daruma doll and India lies in the figure of Bodhidharma, known in Japan as Daruma Daishi. He was an Indian monk from Kancheepuram in Tamil Nadu, who is believed to have travelled to China over a thousand years ago. Bodhidharma is said to have meditated for nine years facing a wall, which explains the Daruma doll's round, limbless form. The shape also embodies the virtue of never giving up, as its rounded bottom allows it to pop back up when tipped over, symbolizing the saying "Fall seven times, stand up eight". Furthermore, the term "Daruma" itself is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word "Dharma".

A unique tradition associated with the Daruma doll involves goal setting. When a person sets a goal or makes a wish, they paint one eye of the Daruma doll. Once the goal is achieved, they fill in the other eye, signifying the fulfillment of their commitment. This practice transforms the doll into a visual representation of one's journey towards success and serves as a constant reminder of their aspirations.

The presentation of the Daruma doll to Prime Minister Modi carries significant symbolic weight. It represents not only a cultural offering but also a blessing, wishing him resilience and success in strengthening the relationship between India and Japan. The gesture reaffirms the close civilizational and spiritual ties between the two nations. In Japanese tradition, giving a Daruma doll expresses faith in the recipient's determination to achieve their goals.

Shorinzan Darumaji Temple in Takasaki, Gunma, built in 1697, is considered the birthplace of the Daruma doll. The temple's founder created charms depicting Bodhidharma, which were believed to bring happiness and protection. As demand grew, the papier-mâché figurine form was introduced, eventually evolving into the Daruma doll we know today. Takasaki remains one of the largest producers of Daruma dolls, celebrating its heritage with the annual Daruma Doll Festival, where thousands gather to purchase dolls and set intentions for the year.

During his visit, Prime Minister Modi also met with former Japanese Prime Ministers Yoshihide Suga and Fumio Kishida, and addressed the India-Japan Economic Forum, emphasizing deeper cooperation in various sectors. The Daruma doll serves as a potent reminder of the shared cultural heritage and enduring friendship between India and Japan, symbolizing perseverance, good fortune, and the pursuit of common goals.