What exactly are the mysterious red Daruma dolls?

　　You’ve probably spotted them at Asian restaurants worldwide or tucked away in various corners of Japan. However, few people know the unique—and sometimes poignant—history behind their charming appearance.

　　What Is A Daruma Doll?

　　Daruma dolls, cherished symbols of good fortune and future prosperity, are often displayed on shelves at home or in the office. However, before placing them on display, the owner must first make a wish or set a goal they hope to achieve. This intention is symbolised by colouring in one of the doll's eyes. While either eye can be filled first, the left eye is the more common choice.

　　Once the wish is fulfilled or the goal is achieved, the second eye is coloured in, completing the daruma. But where did this tradition of associating wishes and pledges with daruma dolls originate?

　　Daruma is modelled after Bodhidharma, a 5th-century Chinese Buddhist monk who became the patriarch of the Chinese Chan Buddhism school. Although Bodhidharma's origins are Chinese, he is deeply respected in Japan, as the Chinese Chan Buddhism evolved into Zen Buddhism in Japan. Even those unfamiliar with Buddhism can recognise the profound influence of Zen on Japanese society.

　　Where Is Daruma Made?

　　Daruma, much like the popular Maneki-Neko (beckoning cat), may be assumed to be mass-produced in Chinese factories. However, almost all Daruma dolls are still made in the Japanese city of Takasaki, located in Gunma Prefecture, a tradition that has been upheld for over three centuries.

　　Daruma dolls were originally crafted by farmers in the Takasaki district during the 17th century, with the hope of receiving blessings from passing monks. At that time, securing good luck for a bountiful harvest was a pressing concern. This tradition of daruma-making in Takasaki, Gunma, has continued for centuries and remains alive to this day.

　　Daruma's Appearance

　　The appearance of the daruma doll is rooted in a unique and somewhat grim tale. Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, is said to have meditated for nine years straight, causing his limbs and legs to atrophy and fall off. This legend is believed to have inspired the daruma's distinctive shape — a limbless head and body — symbolising his intense devotion to meditation.

　　The colours of the daruma doll are vibrant and carry significant cultural meaning. In many artistic depictions of Bodhidharma, such as Japanese painter Tsukioka Yoshitoshi's ukiyo-e woodblock prints, he is shown wearing red robes. Red is widely associated with good fortune, prosperity, and success in East Asian cultures, where Buddhism is prominent. For instance, during Chinese New Year, red envelopes known as hongbao are given as gifts, filled with money for luck. While red remains the traditional colour, daruma dolls are now available in various colours, including blue, green, white, and gold. These colours don't carry specific symbolic meanings but offer more choices for consumers to pick a daruma in their preferred hue.

　　Daruma dolls are often painted with gold kanji beneath their eyes, which is pronounced fuku-iri and translates to "bringing luck." The face of the doll is designed with features symbolic of two mythical Japanese animals: the crane and the turtle. The crane is associated with good fortune and longevity, as it is believed to live for a thousand years. Similarly, the turtle is also thought to live for centuries and is regarded as a symbol of protection. Both creatures are revered for their connection to health, long life, and safeguarding well-being.

　　Meaning Of Daruma

　　While daruma dolls are widely regarded as good luck charms, their significance goes beyond simply fulfilling wishes. In reality, daruma is not about granting desires, as that would go against the spirit of Buddhism and Japanese philosophy. The true meaning of the daruma doll lies in its role as a reminder of self-sufficiency, focus, and discipline. It encourages perseverance and dedication, emphasizing the importance of personal effort in achieving one's goals.

　　Bodhidharma, the founder of Chan/Zen Buddhism, championed the importance of self-discipline. Similarly, the practice of purchasing and using a daruma doll is less about making a wish and more about having a talisman that serves as a reminder of your personal goals. Drawing in one eye of the daruma is not simply a wish—it is a promise to yourself that you will stay committed to your ambition and achieve your objective, no matter the obstacles or challenges that arise along the way.

　　"Nanakorobi yaoki," often translated as "fall down seven times, stand up eight," is a popular idiom closely associated with the concept of daruma. The daruma represents resilience and perseverance on the journey. When faced with challenges that may make you want to give up, having the daruma on your shelf serves as a constant reminder of your original goal—why you made that promise to yourself in the first place.

　　Daruma In Popular Culture

　　Daruma is deeply embedded in Japanese culture and can be found almost anywhere, not just in physical spaces. It appears frequently in literature, film, television, anime, manga, and video games. Some examples include Daruma Otoshi (a traditional Japanese toy), As the Gods Will (a Japanese horror movie), and many more. The daruma continues to influence various forms of media, further cementing its place in Japanese popular culture.

　　Daruma dolls are now available in a wide variety of colours, with each hue symbolising a different type of wish. These colours provide a more personalised experience, allowing individuals to choose a daruma that aligns with their specific goals or desires, whether it's for wealth, health, love, or success.