Prime Minister Narendra Modi was gifted a Daruma doll during his two-day visit to Japan. The doll was presented to him by the Chief Priest of the Shorinzan-Daruma-ji Temple as a gesture of friendship and goodwill between India and Japan. PM Modi is in Japan to attend the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit and will also hold talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.
About the Daruma doll
The Daruma doll is one of Japan’s most famous cultural symbols. It is round, hollow, brightly painted, and always stands upright even if pushed over, representing strength, resilience, and good luck. It is inspired by Bodhidharma, the monk who founded Zen Buddhism, and reflects the Japanese saying: “Fall seven times, get up eight.”
The doll is also used for goal-setting. When someone buys it, both eyes are blank. The person makes a wish or sets a goal and paints one eye black. Once the goal is achieved, the second eye is filled in, showing commitment and achievement.
The tradition of the Daruma doll began at Shorinzan Temple in Takasaki, near Tokyo. Over time, it spread across Japan and became linked to perseverance in business, politics, and personal life. Every year, Takasaki celebrates the Daruma Doll Festival, where thousands of people buy dolls, set intentions for the year, and return old ones in gratitude.
By giving this doll to PM Modi, Japan sent a symbolic message of resilience, hope, and success. It was not just a gift, but also a blessing for his leadership and a sign of strengthening India-Japan relations.
Purpose of visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Japan to attend the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit and hold discussions with his Japanese counterpart, Shigeru Ishiba. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations, with a focus on economic cooperation, trade, investment, technology, and strategic partnership.
Both leaders are expected to review ongoing collaborations, explore new growth opportunities, and reaffirm their commitment to working together on regional and global issues. This visit highlightsIndia’s continued efforts to deepen its ties with Japan as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region.