Daruma are papier-mâché tumbling dolls that are sold at doll markets held at various times throughout the year in Japan. Custom encourages people to buy dolls that have no eyes painted in. The doll owner makes a wish and gives the doll one eye; the other eye is painted in when the wish has been fulfilled. During the Daruma Ichi held in Takasaki (January 6-7), these dolls are sold in stalls erected on the grounds of shrines or temples. They are similar in shape to the famous Russian “nesting” dolls, and they are often made by farmers as a hobby and sold during the winter months. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary