I had the privilege of meeting Rev. Seishi Hirose, the Chief Priest of the historic Shorinzan Daruma-Ji Temple in Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture, Japan. The meeting was both inspiring and culturally enriching, highlighting the shared traditions and spiritual connections between India and Japan.
The Gift of the Daruma Doll
During our interaction, Rev. Hirose graciously presented me with a Daruma Doll. This symbolic gift holds deep cultural significance in Japan. The Daruma is widely regarded as a representation of perseverance, determination, and good fortune. It is traditionally used as a source of motivation—reminding individuals to stay focused on their goals until they are achieved.
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… pic.twitter.com/HjSWVx78sp
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 29, 2025
The Cultural Link with India
What makes the Daruma even more meaningful is its connection with India. The design and concept of the Daruma Doll are inspired by Bodhidharma, an Indian monk who traveled to Japan centuries ago and laid the foundation of Zen Buddhism. His teachings of discipline and mindfulness continue to influence Japanese culture today.
Strengthening India–Japan Cultural Ties
This meeting was not only an exchange of courtesies but also a celebration of the deep cultural and spiritual ties between our two nations. India and Japan share centuries-old traditions of philosophy, spirituality, and mutual respect. The Daruma serves as a living symbol of this heritage, reminding us of the common roots that bind our people together.
Looking Ahead
The gesture from Rev. Seishi Hirose is a reminder of how cultural symbols like the Daruma Doll carry forward the values of resilience and harmony. Such exchanges strengthen the bond between India and Japan, opening the door for more meaningful interactions in the future—spanning culture, spirituality, and people-to-people connections.
