PM Modi Receives Traditional Daruma Doll During Japan Visit

Quick Summary

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Japan on August 29, 2025, as part of a two-day visit aimed at strengthening cultural and civilizational ties between India and Japan.
• During the visit, PM Modi was presented with a customary Daruma doll by Rev Seishi Hirose, the Chief Priest of Shorinzan Daruma-Ji temple in Takasaki-Gunma.
• The Ministry of External Affairs described the gesture as reaffirming close spiritual and ancient bonds between the two nations.
• The Daruma doll is considered auspicious in Japanese culture and originates from Takasaki City in Gunma Prefecture.
• The tradition traces its roots to Bodhidharma (daruma Daishi), an indian monk from Kancheepuram, tamil Nadu, who traveled to Japan over a thousand years ago.

Indian Opinion Analysis

Prime Minister Modi’s receiving of the Daruma doll underscores longstanding historical links between India and Japan rooted in shared spiritual traditions dating back over a millennium. This gesture highlights India’s cultural contributions through figures like Bodhidharma while also serving as symbolic reinforcement of bilateral ties beyond economics or geopolitics. Such engagements hold significance for fostering mutual respect for heritage amid modern diplomacy.

The choice to honor PM Modi with an artifact deeply embedded in Japanese culture signals recognition of India’s role in contributing to foundational aspects of east Asian spiritual practices-a compelling touchpoint for maintaining harmony between civilizations while navigating contemporary challenges globally.

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