The living Goddess of Nepal: Kumari

 by Abriti Ghimire

Nepal is nestled in the lap of the Himalayas and is a country brimming with mystique, cultural richness and history. Although there are many unique traditions and customs, I think the Kumari stands out as one of the most captivating and enigmatic. The Kumari is a living goddess, a young girl (usually 2 years old, or even newborns) selected to represent the divine in Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, and several other cities. This essay explores the origins, selection process, role, controversies, and evolving significance of the Nepali Kumari, shedding light on this extraordinary and evolving cultural phenomenon.

Kumari is a living virgin goddess worshipped in the Hindu kingdom of Nepal. This tradition originated in the Malla period in the Kathmandu Valley which began in the 12th century. There are many Kumari in Nepal, but the most significant one is the Kumari Devi (Royal Kumari), who is in Kathmandu. The others live in Bhaktapur and Patan, respectively. The Kumari is a prepubescent girl who is chosen in an elaborate ceremonial process and it is believed that once the girl is chosen, Nepalese believe that the goddess Taleju (an incarnation of the Hindu Goddess Durga) inhabits her body. 

The selection of a Kumari is a very intricate and spiritual process. There are 32 ‘perfections’ the girl must have to be selected as the Kumari such as:

• Being part of the Newar community - the indigenous inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley.

• Being part of the Shakya or Bajracharya families (as they are thought to be descendants of the Buddha and therefore connected to the divine).

• Possessing specific physical attributes such as unblemished skin, narrow nose etc. 

• Must have never shed blood, so she should not have lost a tooth, gotten a scratch or experienced her first menstruation.

• Astrology plays a significant role in the selection process. The chosen girl must meet specific astrological conditions which prove her role as a Kumari.

If she meets every quality, they take her to another test which proves her fearlessness by putting her in a room with sacrificial remains and masks, if she doesn’t seem scared, she is officially chosen as the Kumari, and taken to the Kumari Ghar(the place where she will live throughout her time as the Kumari) . However, this part of the selection can’t be proven as it is sacred and not shown to the public. 

The Kumari’s main role is to make public appearances during religious festivals where she blesses visitors. Her presence is thought to bring good fortune. The Kumari's appearance is distinct. She wears traditional attire that includes red garments, a third eye painted on her forehead, and a crown adorned with jewels. Her feet remain bare, symbolising her divine status. 

Today, the Kathmandu Kumari family can visit on official occasions due to social changes (other Kumaris live with their families). Her friends are chosen from her caste. She is trained by her handlers. Her feet  aren't allowed to touch the grounds outside her residence, although devotees like to touch them on ceremonial occasions.

When visiting the Kumari, conversation is not allowed. The Kumari's gaze is believed to reveal one's future wealth, health, and status. Certain actions are associated with specific outcomes: picking at food offerings signifies financial losses, crying signifies illness or death, trembling signifies impending imprisonment. Silence is highly valued by visitors as it indicates that their wishes are likely to be granted. Many people with blood or menstruation issues visit the Kumari due to her association with the subject.

The primary concern of becoming a Kumari is the isolation and strict lifestyle imposed on the Kumari. During her tenure, she is not allowed to leave the Kumari Ghar, and her interactions with the outside world are limited. Critics argue that this practice infringes on her basic rights and can hinder her personal development. There is also a legend  of how Kumari's husband dies early, as a result of which the now common girl never  marries. Many of today's Kumaris have spoken up about the many harsh aspects of Kumari life.

Despite criticisms regarding her isolated lifestyle, the Kumari's role has evolved to become a cultural ambassador, symbolising Nepal's rich heritage, spirituality, and adaptability to the modern world. After they’ve had their first menstruation, they are regarded as ordinary girls and go to live with their families,go to school and meet new people. However, they are still aided through school and their daily life and given a small pension once they leave.