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A 2-year-old girl is chosen as Nepal's new living goddess

2025-09-30 18:47:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

A 2-year-old girl is chosen as Nepal's new living goddess

A two-year-old girl was paraded through the streets of Kathmandu to be chosen as Nepal's new living goddess during the country's biggest annual festival.

Aryatara Shakya, at the age of two years and eight months, was chosen as the new Kumari, replacing her predecessor who, according to tradition, returns to mortal life after reaching puberty.

The Kumari, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, is chosen between the ages of two and four based on strict criteria such as flawless skin, eyes, teeth and courage. Worshippers consider the living goddess a divine incarnation, carrying her around the city in a chariot during major religious festivals.

Always dressed in red with a painted third eye, the Kumari blesses devotees who line up to touch her feet with their foreheads, the highest form of respect in Nepal.

Shakya will live in a temple palace for several years, only rarely leaving for festivals. Although the Kumaris have traditionally lived a secluded life, recent changes allow them private education, access to television and a small state pension upon retirement.

The young Kumari is expected to bless devotees, including the president of Nepal, on Thursday, the main day of the Dusain festival./ CNA





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