Off The Record
A Two-Year-Old Becomes Nepal’s New “Living Goddess”
In a centuries-old tradition deeply woven into Nepal’s cultural and religious fabric, a toddler has been elevated to divine status.
On September 30, 2025, during the Hindu festival of Dashain, Nepal appointed Aryatara Shakya, a girl aged two years and eight months, as the new Kumari, or “living goddess.”
The Selection and Ceremony
The selection took place amid the concluding days of Dashain, Nepal’s longest and most significant Hindu festival. Aryatara was carried by her family through narrow alleyways of Kathmandu to the Kumari Ghar, the temple palace which becomes her residence. Her procession drew devotees and onlookers, many of whom paid homage by touching their foreheads to her feet and offering flowers, gifts, and money.
On the following day, she is expected to bless high officials, including the president and supporters.
The Role and Its Criteria
The tradition of the Kumari dates back hundreds of years and is practiced primarily in the Kathmandu Valley. A Kumari is believed to be the living incarnation of the goddess Taleju (a tantric aspect of Durga), embodying divine feminine energy until her first menstruation, at which point she returns to life as a mortal.
Candidates are drawn from the Shakya clan of the Newar community. They are chosen according to strict physical and behavioral specifications: flawless skin, teeth, hair, and eyes; no history of significant illness or trauma; and not being afraid of darkness.The chosen child is also adorned with a “third eye” painted on her forehead and must pin her hair into a topknot.
Typically, Kumaris are selected between the ages of two and four, and they serve in the role until they reach puberty.
The Transfer from Former Khumari
Aryatara succeeds Trishna Shakya, who had served as Kumari for eight years, having taken on the role at age three in 2017. During the recent Indra Jatra festival, Trishna was paraded on a chariot by devotees, marking her final public rites before she was ceremonially removed from the palace through a rear exit and carried home by supporters.
Life as a Goddess
Once installed, the Kumari leads a life of ritual seclusion. She rarely leaves the temple, and only emerges for ceremonial occasions and major festivals, appearing to bless worshippers from her window or balcony. Within the palace, her world is limited: her companions are usually a few selected playmates, often children associated with the caretakers.
Over recent years, certain modern adaptations have eased the strictness of seclusion. The Kumari may receive homeschooling or private tutoring inside the palace, and is sometimes permitted access to a television. The government also provides former Kumaris with a monthly pension of approximately $110.
The Family’s Reaction
Aryatara’s father, Ananta Shakya, expressed profound pride and wonder at her selection. “She was just my daughter yesterday, but today she is a goddess,” he said. He also shared that during pregnancy his wife dreamt their daughter was divine, a vision that gave them early belief in her special destiny.
Challenges and Criticism
While deeply respected as a cultural and spiritual institution, the Kumari tradition has been criticized by human rights advocates. Critics argue that the ritual life imposes constraints on childhood, educational access, and social development. Former Kumaris have spoken of struggles in reintegrating into everyday life after their tenure ends, particularly in adapting to social norms, schooling, and daily chores. The superstitions around marriage—such as the belief that marrying a former Kumari might bring misfortune—further complicate life after the role.
In response to some criticism, the state now mandates that serving Kumaris receive education and ensures a pension for those who retire.
A Living Symbol
Aryatara Shakya’s installation reaffirms a deep-rooted religious and cultural practice in Nepal that bridges Hindu and Buddhist faiths. As Kumari, she will be venerated as a conduit of divine femininity for the duration of her service. Yet behind the ritual grandeur and sacred respect lies a complex interplay of tradition, child rights, personal destiny, and societal change.
Her tenure will last until she reaches puberty, when the divine presence is believed to leave her body—and she transitions back into ordinary life. Until then, she remains both an object of worship and a living child hidden behind temple walls.
Now Trending:
- Manchester Synagogue Victim Likely Killed By Police Bullet Amid Terror Chaos
- Teenager Discovered Trapped In Chimney Following 7-Year Disappearance
- Doctor-Approved Finger Test Warns Of Significant Health Issues
Please SHARE this article with Family and Friends and let us know in the comments!
