Kumari: The Living Goddess of Nepal
Kumari: The Living Goddess of Nepal Nepal, a land rich with traditions and spirituality, is home to one of the world’s most unique and divine customs - the worship of the Kumari, the Living Goddess. Revered as the earthly manifestation of the Hindu goddess Taleju (Durga), the Kumari is a young prepubescent girl chosen from the Newar Shakya or Bajracharya community and is worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists alike. This centuries-old practice blends religion, culture, and mysticism, symbolizing the deep spiritual heritage of Nepal. Historical Background The tradition of worshipping the Kumari dates back to the Malla period in the 17th century. It is believed that King Jay Prakash Malla, the last Malla king of Kathmandu, established this practice after a divine vision of Goddess Taleju instructed him to select a young virgin girl to embody her power. Since then, the Kumari Ghar (Kumari’s residence) at Basantapur Durbar Square has been home to the Royal Kumari of Kathmandu — the most ...