The Daruma doll gifted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 2025 visit to Japan is a traditional Japanese symbol of good luck, perseverance, and resilience. This round, hollow doll is typically painted red and has a peculiar design—it has no limbs (arms and legs) and no eyes initially painted. The absence of limbs and eyes carries deep cultural and spiritual meaning.
Why Does the Daruma Doll Have No Limbs and Eyes?
- Limbless Design: The Daruma doll represents Bodhidharma, an Indian monk who founded Zen Buddhism in the 5th-6th century. According to legend, Bodhidharma meditated for nine years without moving, which caused him to lose the use of his limbs. This inspired the limbless, rounded shape of the Daruma doll that symbolizes endurance and unwavering determination. Additionally, its weighted bottom and round shape mean that it always springs back upright when pushed over, embodying the Japanese proverb “Nanakorobi yaoki” (“fall down seven times, get up eight”).
- Eyes: Daruma dolls are traditionally sold with blank eyes. When a person sets a goal or makes a wish, they paint one eye on the doll to mark the intention. Once the goal is fulfilled, the second eye is painted to symbolize success and completion. This ritual keeps the person motivated and focused on achieving their objectives.
The Indian Connection
Bodhidharma, the inspiration for the Daruma doll, is believed to have been born in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. He traveled to China and spread Buddhist teachings, which eventually evolved into Zen Buddhism in Japan. The gift of this Indian-origin doll to PM Modi symbolizes the centuries-old spiritual and cultural link between India and Japan.
Symbolism of the Gift to PM Modi
The Daruma doll given to PM Modi by the Chief Priest of the Shorinzan Daruma-Ji Temple in Japan is more than a decorative item—it reflects goodwill, trust, and wishes for perseverance and success in achieving personal and diplomatic goals. The gift reflects:
- The deep cultural ties and shared history between India and Japan.
- A symbol of resilience in the face of challenges.
- An encouragement for determination in India-Japan relations and Modi’s leadership.
Summary
In essence, the limbless shape and initially blank eyes of the Daruma doll gift to PM Modi are profound symbols rooted in Buddhist legend and cultural values. This Indian-origin doll inspires endurance, success, and spiritual connection, making it a uniquely meaningful diplomatic gift.
