Arizona Matsuri

Daruma

Daruma were first developed in approximately 1764. They have remained popular as good-luck charms. They have no arms or legs because of the legend that during Daruma’s nine long years of meditation in China, his arms and legs reportedly atrophied and fell off. The dolls are red because that color has long been associated with warding off illness. The dolls have no eyelids due to a legend that says Daruma once fell asleep during meditation, and in anger he cast them off to prevent sleep from ever interrupting his meditation.

Typically made of paper mache and sold at Temples and festivals, the Daruma comes in many sizes and shapes. Most are male, however, female dolls are called Hime Daruma (Princess Daruma) or Onna Daruma (Female Daruma). Daruma dolls are also called ‘Tumbler Dolls' (Okiagari koboshi) because when they are knocked on their side, they pop back upright, linking them to the proverb “if you fall down seven times, get up eight.” In Japanese to have good luck it is said “Me ga deta” literally translated to “eyes come out.” Eyes are an important symbol of luck and winning.

Kaigan Shiki is the eye painting ceremony. Daruma are sold without the eyes painted in. At auspicious times (New Years, weddings, birth of baby, and other important junctures in life) a Daruma doll is purchased, a wish is made, and the left eye is painted in. The Daruma is then placed in a visible place. When the goal is achieved, the right eye is painted while giving thanks. It is customary to take the old Daruma dolls to the local temple at the end of the year to be burned in a large bonfire (Daruma Kuyou). Often a new Daruma is purchased at that time.

During Daruma ceremonies, a priest may paint the left eye for you while sounding the first letter of the Japanese alphabet (A – pronounced ah – with your mouth open wide) and when you paint the right eye after achieving your wish, you would sound the last letter of the Japanese alphabet (n – pronounced as nnn – with your mouth closed) signifying that the wish has been granted, or completed.

Home About Performers Exhibitors Merchandise vendors Food vendors  Photo Gallery 
Sponsors  Location  Steering Committee  Contact us  Press/Media