Daruma Doll the icon of endurance and cultural connection between Japan and India

Recently featured by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his visit to Japan, the Daruma doll is an ancient Japanese icon that symbolizes perseverance, good luck and goal-setting. Introduced by the chief priest of Daruma-ji temple, Rev Seishi Hirose, the doll reflects the traditions of Zen Buddhism of Japan yet follows the paths of its origin which is India.

Historical Origins

The Daruma doll is named after a monk named Bodhidharma based in 5th century Kancheepuram, India who established Zen Buddhism in China after visiting China. He is also remembered as Daruma Daishi who spent nine years meditating before a wall in Japan. The design of the doll was influenced by his commitment - it was rounded, limbless and had blank eyes. Daruma is named after the Sanskrit word Dharma, or cosmic law or duty.

Design and Meaning

• Material: papier-mache.
• Shape: Rounded bottom allows it to self-correct when tilted, which represents strength.
• Proverb: related to the expression Fall seven times, stand up eight.
• Goal ritual: An eye is drawn when a goal is made, and the other when it is reached, which strengthens the concentration and determination.

Daruma-ji Temple in Takasaki

The Daruma doll-making started in the Shorinzan Daruma-ji Temple built in 1697 in the Gunma Prefecture. It is a religious centre where individuals go to be blessed so that they succeed in school, business and personal work. In the past, the emperors and shogun used to visit the temple to get good luck. This tradition has been maintained since 1981 by the current chief priest Rev Seishi Hirose.

India-Japan Connection

The Daruma statue is the spiritual representation of the connection between Japan and India. As the legacy of the Indian background of Bodhidharma transformed into the Japanese cultural tradition and embedded into the national culture of the nation as a common symbol of perseverance, discipline and belief.