Travel Guides

Meet the Living Goddess Kumari

Living goddess Kumari is a young girl aged between 3 and 4, who is believed to be a divine incarnation of the goddess Durga or Taleju Bhawani. The Sanskrit term “Kumari” is derived from the word “Kaumarya,” which translates to “princess.” In the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal, resides a living embodiment of divine grace and cultural heritage the Kumari, a revered living goddess. Chosen from the Newar community, the Kumari is a prepubescent girl believed to be the earthly vessel of the goddess Taleju. Her selection involves a rigorous process, emphasizing specific physical and astrological attributes, as well as a demonstration of fearlessness and serenity.

The living goddess Kumari lives in the Kumari Ghar, an intricately adorned palace located in the historic Durbar Square. Her daily life is a unique blend of sacred rituals, cultural responsibilities, and an existence sheltered from the mundane aspects of ordinary childhood. Dressed in a traditional Newari attire, her regal presence is enhanced by the “Kumari Baha,” a red mark adorning her forehead, symbolizing her divine status.

Devotees and curious onlookers gather at the Kumari Ghar to catch a glimpse of the living goddess during the Kumari Jatra, an annual procession that celebrates her divine presence. The Kumari, seated atop a chariot, blesses the crowd with a mere glimpse, her aura radiating a sense of mystique and spiritual energy.

However, meeting the living goddess Kumari is not an everyday affair. Visitors may have the opportunity to receive her blessings during the “Darshan,” a brief audience where she may appear at her window. Her presence is a source of spiritual inspiration, and devotees believe that receiving her blessings brings good fortune and protection. Yet, Kumari’s life is not without its challenges. When she reaches puberty or loses blood due to an injury, a new Kumari is chosen, and the former returns to a normal life. This ancient tradition reflects the cyclical nature of existence, emphasizing the impermanence of divine manifestations.

The living goddess Kumari embodies Nepal’s rich cultural tapestry, serving as a living bridge between the spiritual and the temporal. Her existence is a testament to the enduring traditions that have shaped the nation’s identity, captivating the imaginations of those who seek to witness the divine in the heart of the Himalayas.

What are the 32 perfections of the living goddess Kumari?

The selection of the living goddess Kumari is very confidential and strict. It is said that she must possess all the physical 32 perfections in order to be eligible for the living goddess Kumari. Followings are the physical perfections she must possess then only she is eligible for further tests.

  1. Virgin
  2. Body like a Banyan Tree (Nyagrodha)
  3. Eyelashes like Cow
  4. A broad forehead
  5. Neck like a conch shell
  6. No blemishes, moles, or Birthmarks
  7. Chest like a lion
  8. Body formed like a Saptacchata Leaf
  9. Voice soft and clear as of a duck
  10. Same horoscope as of the King
  11. Round shoulders
  12. No bad body odour
  13. Perfectly shaped teeth
  14. Sign of Serenity and Fearlessness
  15. A well-formed heel
  16. Black Straight Hair and Dark Eyes
  17. Delicate and Soft hands and feet
  18. Thighs like those of a deer
  19. Small and moist tongue
  20. Sexual Organs are small and well-recessed

Kumari is chosen by five senior Buddhist Bajracharya: the Chief Royal Priest, the Priest of Taleju, a royal astrologer, and the Priest of Taleju.

Is Kumari Pratha violating child rights?

The current debate and pressure from human rights and children’s rights advocates in Nepal on the Kumari system have slightly softened the strict rules that regulate Kathmandu’s Kumaris. Kumaris lacked proper education and understanding of their surroundings and social life. This complicated the transition from a living goddess to a common mortal after dethronement.

Today, Kumari in the Kumari Ghar receives education and a private tutor. Even the Internet, books, and magazines are available for use. The Kumari take part in national exams while being observed inside the palace. After losing the title of living goddess, Kumari Goddess takes a step towards a better future.

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