Do you know about Nepal? It is a small, landlocked country which lies between India and China. It is famous for many high mountains. Here, you can find Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. But today, we’re not going to talk about mountains. Instead, we’re going to talk about a unique and interesting topic called “The Living Goddess Kumari”.
First of all, let’s know about Nepal more. Nepal is a beautiful country filled with rich history, culture, and traditions. Here you can find different ethnic groups, languages, and religions. It has over 125 distinct ethnic groups, each with its own customs, traditions, and languages. The Newar community is one of the many ethnic groups in Nepal. They are also called the original inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley. They are well known for their rich cultural heritage and unique traditions. They speak a unique language called Nepal Bhasa (Newari). In Nepal, you can find a blend of both Hinduism and Buddhism in the Newar community.
The Newar community has a deep connection with the living goddess Kumari. They have been worshiping the Goddess Kumari for centuries.
So, what does Kumari means?
The word “Kumari” means “princess”, ” virgin “or” unmarried young woman.” It is derived from the Sanskrit word: कुमारी (Kumari).
However, in context of Nepal when we talk about “Kumari” or “The Living Goddess Kumari,” it means the young girl chosen and worshipped as the reincarnation of the goddess Taleju Bhawani in Nepal. She is chosen through many rituals and believed to have divine powers until she reaches puberty.
There are Kumari in many places like Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, Bungmati, Thimi and other towns. So, in this blog we will talk about the Kumari of Kathmandu. Before beginning, let me ask you one question. Do you know who the current Kumari goddess of Kathmandu is?
So, the current Kumari goddess of Kathmandu is Trishna Shakya. She was appointed as the living goddess Kumari of Kathmandu in September 2017.
The History of the Living Goddess Kumari
It is difficult to say exactly when the tradition of Kumari started. There are many stories about the beginning of the tradition of Kumari. However, it is believed that it started at the 17th century during the rule of King Jayaprakash Malla. One time King Jayaprakash Malla and his friends playing a dice game called Tripasa. Then, the goddess also came every night and played the game with king. But she played the game only in one condition that the king should not tell anyone about their meet. But the time will not be same as always. So, one day the queen fined this doubtful and followed him to find out whom the king meets every night.
Then the queen saw the goddess Taleju and Taleju got angry. The King begged her so much but she left the palace. Then, one night in the dream, the goddess Taleju appears and told the king that she would return in the form of children in the Shakya and Bajracharya communities in Ratnawali. Then, the king Jayaprakash malla started to search the children who have the spirit of Taleju. He also ordered to build the Kumari ghar for her. From this time it is said that the kumari tradition began.
Another story is about the King Trailokyo Malla and the goddess Taleju. It is said that that goddess Taleju visited King Trailokyo Malla every night in the form of human. Then they played the game called Tripasa. But one night the king had the sexual desire and tried to have sexual attempt with her. This behavior of the king made the goddess angry. So, she left the palace and never visited him. Then, the king apologizes and begged her to return. At last, she agreed to return in the form of a young virgin Shakya girl. Then the king Trailokyo Malla began to search the goddess Taleju in Shakya famiy.
The third story is about the king and the young girl. Once upon a time there was a king who was always attracted to the young girls and always have sexual attempt with them. But one day, a young girl died during sexual intercourse. This incident made the King feel guilty and he apologizes. Then, the king created the Goddess Kumari as a value to young girls in the society.
So, even it is difficult to pinpoint one exact beginning time and story among various stories, people are still worshiping a young girl as a living goddess. It shows the respect for tradition in Nepalese society.
Selection Process
Not just any girl can become the living goddess Kumari. It’s not just about finding a beautiful girl. It is the careful selection process where a child with qualities of purity, innocence, and inner strength is chosen.
The living goddess Kumari is selected by five senior Buddhist Vajracharya priests, the Panch Buddha, the Bada Guruju, the Achajau, and the royal astrologer. She must fulfill the following criteria to become Kumari:
Birth Chart Analysis:
One of the first steps for selecting Kumari is to analyze her birth chart. The astrologers look for specific planetary positions and constellations that are believed to indicate divine qualities.
Age
The girl should be typically between three and four years old at the time of selection.
From a Shakya or Bajracharya family
Kumari should be chosen from either the Shakya or Bajracharya families from the same caste for three generations. They both are the Newar castes from the Kathmandu Valley.
Battis Lakshan (32 perfections)
The girl must have 32 specific traits, called “Battis Lakshan.” They are signs of perfection. The following are the 32 characteristics that one must have to be “the living goddess Kumari:
- Virginity: Must be pre-menstrual and have never bled.
- Unblemished Body: No scars or marks on the skin.
- Eyebrows like a Cow: Thick and well-shaped.
- Dark, Straight Hair: Healthy and long.
- White Teeth: Complete set without gaps.
- Dark Eyes: Bright and expressive.
- Sonorous Voice: A melodious and clear voice.
- Long, Slender Arms: Graceful and well-proportioned.
- Delicate Hands and Feet: Soft and tender.
- No Bad Body Smell: Pleasant fragrance.
- Thighs like a Deer: Slim and elegant.
- Neck like a Conch Shell: Gracefully shaped.
- Small, Moist Tongue: Healthy appearance.
- Well-Formed Genitals: Positioned deep in the pelvis.
- Chest like a Lion: Strong and well-defined.
- Round Shoulders: Balanced posture.
- A Body like a Banyan Tree: Sturdy yet flexible.
- Shapely Feet: Well-formed with a beautiful arch.
- A Circle under the Sole of Foot: A specific shape that is considered auspicious.
- Well-Formed Heel: Strong and properly shaped.
- Long Toes: Elegant length.
- Tender Feet and Hands: Soft to the touch.
- Cheeks like a Lion: Full and healthy appearance.
- Forty Teeth (or 20 sets): Complete set of teeth is ideal.
- Small Tongue: Proportional to the mouth size.
- Moist Tongue: Indicates healthiness.
- Deep Voice of a Sparrow: Sound is powerful but soft.
- Black-blue Eyes: A specific eye color that is admired.
- Lashes of a Cow: Long and attractive eyelashes.
- Beautiful Shadow: The aura or presence she carries must be captivating.
Physical Attributes
The girl must be young, have excellent health, and have following physical traits:
- No blemishes or scars on her body.
- Uncut hair and nails.
- Black hair and eyes.
- She must not have shed any blood or suffered from any illness.
Fearlessness
After examining all the 32 perfections of the girl (according to ritual), there is a final test of the girl. This test is done on the 8th day of Dashain also known as Kalratri. The girl should show her fearlessness in this test. She will be taken to a dark room. In that room, there will be 108 buffaloes and goats heads which were sacrificed to goddess Kali. Also, there will be masked men making scary noises. Then, she must spend a night with those animal heads and masked men.
A girl is disqualified from becoming the Kumari if she shows fear during the test. Then, another girl will be brought forward to try them. This continues until a suitable candidate is found. They must meet all criteria and show the necessary qualities.
After passing this test, different traditional ornaments are placed in front of the girl. Then, she must choose the same ornaments that the previous Kumari choose. Then only she passed the entire test to be Kumari.
After the selection, different pujas and rituals are done. Then, Kumari is taken to the Kumari Ghar or Kumari Chen.
Role and Responsibilities
After knowing a bit about Kumari, there might be a curiosity in your mind about the roles and responsibilities of the living goddess Kumari. So, as the Living Goddess, the Kumari’s primary role is as a protector. It is believed that her divine power helps to protect the nation and the people from harm.
Other than the protection, she has some responsibilities in daily life too. In Daily life, she should follow the strict rules and regulations. Once she is selected as the living goddess Kumari, she is separated from her family and should live in the Kumari Ghar. She will have limited interaction with outsiders. She should follow the vegetarian diet. She should maintain her purity. Her feet should never touch the ground. If this happened it is considered to be impure. She can come out of the Kumari house only during the festivals like Indrajatra and some other special occasions. Whenever she has to come in public, she is either carried by the caretakers or carried in a palanquin.
Not only that, she should always wear red traditional dress. She should wear a red jama (skirt) that reached her feet and a red blouse known as a bhoto. She should also put a head coverings crafted from gold and various precious metals and gemstones. Her hair is often styled in a topknot. It is often decorated with flowers or jewels.
Kumari Ghar: The Home of the Living Goddess
Kumari Ghar is also called Kumari Chen or Kumari Bahal. It is located in Basantapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is said to be built by King Jaya Prakash Malla in 1757. It is beautifully designed in Newari architecture. It has three-step entrance guarded by two stone lions. Different mythology has different stories about the lions. Some says that those stone lions are said as guardians of the Kumari Ghar. It is placed as the symbol for protecting both the deity and the sacred place. Whereas some story says that, they are especially associated with goddess Durga, who rides a lion.
It also has beautifully carved windows with peacock designs. Here you can see twenty-two beautifully carved windows in various styles on the northern side of the Kumari ghar. There are a total of 11 TikiJhyas or AkhiJhyas, 3 Ga Jhyas, 2 ChaklaJhyas and 6 Sa Jhyas. Ga Jhyas are the gold-plated window in the center and just above the main entrance. It is said that only the Kumari can see through the main Ga Jhya.
Talking about the inside design of the Kumari ghar, there is an open courtyard (or bahal) where different rituals take place. It is also called as Kumari Chowk. A stone chaitya (stupa) with images of the Pancha Buddhas is at center of this courtyard. The courtyard also contains the two Chakras in which tantric Kumari Yantra is written in ne of them.
Talking about its architecture, Kumari Ghar follows a typical Newar residential style. The doors and windows have the wooden crafted designs. There is a ground floor called Chhidi, first floor called Maata, second floor called Chwata and a roof. In the second floor there is a window called “Sa Jhya”. Only from this window Living Goddess Kumari gives a short glimpse to the visitors every day.
The great throne of the living goddess Kumari is located on the top floor. It is a golden throne which is carved with a peacock as a seat (aasan). Kumari is seated on this throne on the last day of Indra Jatra and in Dashain. In this time devotee worship, take tika and blessings from the Goddess Kumari.
Third eye of Kumari (Tri-Netra)
The third eye (Tri- Netra) of the Kumari is also known as the “Agni Chakshu” or “fire eye”. This third eye is painted on the Kumari’s forehead. It looks like a golden eye with a black pupil. It symbolizes her special powers and the direct connection to the goddess Taleju. It is mostly painted on her forehead with special attention during major festivals like Dashain and Indra Jatra.
Do you know how third eye is painted?
So, the third eye is painted with the following steps:
- Base Colors: First, cover the Kumari’s forehead with Sindoor. Sindoor is a crimson red powder made from vermilion. It symbolizes purity and auspiciousness.
- Yellow Pigment: A yellow pigment is applied on the forehead along with the sindoor. It is made from turmeric and sandalwood. This combination not only enhances her appearance but also signifies prosperity and divinity.
- The Tri-Netra Design: The actual third eye, or tri-Netra, is painted in the center of her forehead with black outline. It is often shown in gold or silver metals. This creates a striking contrast with the bright colors of sindoor and turmeric.
Power of Kumari
As we know that, Kumari is regarded as the reincarnation of the goddess Taleju. Her blessings are believed to bring good fortune, protect against harm, and fulfill wishes. One of the most important powers is her ability to heal. Devotees visit her for taking blessings for health and protection from diseases. It is believed that just a glance from Kumari can remove physical suffering. Mostly people visit for blood related disorders or menstrual issues. Her touch is considered auspicious and is thought to bring good fortune and positive energy.
People try to get blessings during important life events and festivals. Locals, tourists, and even political leaders also try to get the blessings from the living goddess Kumari. Her presence is also believed to protect the nation. It is believed that she safeguard Nepal from evil forces and misfortune. It is believed that if Kumari shows some unusual behaviors like crying, angriness or laughing, then it will also impact the nation.
There is one incident shared by one of the former living goddess Kumari of Patan, Chanira Bajracharya. She was appointed as Kumari from 2001 to 2010. In one of the podcast she shared her experiences and her transition from a Goddess to a normal person.
She was appointed as the living goddess Kumari of Patan in March 2001(2057 Chaitra). Then, one day while being Kumari, she started crying. People tried to calm her, but her tears didn’t stop. She cried for around 3 days continuously. Then, the priest discussed and make planned for doing the forgiveness puja because the crying of the goddess Kumari is said to be inauspicious. But before doing any rituals and puja, there was news about the Royal Massacre. The Royal Massacre happened.
Then after hearing that news, the Kumari became silent, smiled and said that her crying duty was finished. All the people were shocked that unusual behavior of former Kumari and the incident happened in the country. It might be coincident but it is also said that there is the divine connection between the living goddess Kumari and the nation.
What happens if Kumari smiles at you?
The living Goddess Kumari is regarded as the reincarnation of Goddess Taleju. Her presence is believed to bring blessings and good fortune. She rarely shows emotion in public. She is expected to remain calm. Bu, if Kumari shows emotion and smiles at you, it is considered a bad omen. It is believed that Kumari smiling means some bad incidents will happen.
Daily Life within the Kumari Ghar
Once a girl is selected as a living goddess Kumari her life changes dramatically. She moves into Kumari Ghar (Kumari Chen), her palace, where she lives with caretakers. She is isolated from the outside world. Her daily life involves strict rules and regulations. The life of a Kumari is not same as normal child. She can only leave her palace for 15 days in a year in a festival time.
Kumari’s each day begun with a bath and then perform rituals to worship the gods. She dresses traditionally, in red color and jewelry. She is not allowed to wear shoes, but you might see her wearing red stockings on her feet. She also has a painting of the “Agni Chakshu,” or “Fire eye,” on her forehead.
Then, from 9 AM to 12 PM, devotees line up outside the Kumari Ghar to receive blessings. There is limited communication opportunity for her. She can’t talk with visitors during these hours. She is not allowed to speak to anyone except her caretakers and family members The Kumari appears at her window, and people believe that even a glimpse of her brings good fortune. So, people wait for many hours just to get a look of living goddess Kumari.
Education
So talking about Education, in past days, Kumari did not receive formal education. However, in recent years, a private tutor has been provided for education. This tutor visits the Kumari Ghar regularly to teach her subjects which are same as regular schools courses. The timing is mostly from 12 PM to 4 PM. In this time no devotees are allowed to visit her. Then the examination is also taken according to school regulations inside the Kumari Ghar.
She is not allowed to go outside the Kumari Ghar and play with other children. But she is allowed to play with the children of her caretakers inside Kumari Ghar.
Diet and Food
The meal for Kumari is prepared with great care. The caretaker follows the strict guidelines to maintain her purity. She is strictly prohibited to eat the meat and the blood related food. So, she gets the vegetarian diet. It mostly includes rice, lentils, vegetables, and fruit. When devotees visit her, she is offered different food. But, she is not allowed to eat anything that has been offered by the devotee.
So it is also a proud moment to be a Kumari as well as have to follow rules and restriction.
Transition to Normal Life
When a Kumari begins menstruating, it is said that she lost her divine status. Then, she is no longer considered as the Living Goddess and she must retire from her position. The process of transitioning back to normal life is not just a change in title but also huge shift in identity and lifestyle. After years of being worshipped as god and then returning to the normal world can be challenging for many former Kumaris.
When her tenure ends, she has to spend twelve days in a room to purify her and get ready for regular normal life. Then a farewell program is organized for an outgoing Kumari. Even we can imagine how emotional moment it might be. Many former Kumaris expresses sadness about leaving the life they knew and the place they lived, the Kumari Ghar (Kumari House). For example, Preeti Shakya, a former Kumari, described her emotions while leaving the Kumari House.
After living years alone, many ex-Kumaris find the outside world too much. While Kumari get into the normal life, it might be challenging for her to do daily activities too. She might struggle with simple things, like walking or socializing with people. She might feel socially as well as emotional challenges. Even some former Kumari have also mentioned that it was such an anxious and fear moment to cross road and talking with people. It was so difficulty to navigate public spaces. Despite of many challenges, it is also an opportunity for growth for them.
Challenges and Controversies Surrounding the Kumari Tradition
In Nepal, the Kumari tradition has strong cultural and religious foundation. But still it faces many difficulties and disputes. Here are some challenges and controversies surrounding the Kumari tradition:
Child Rights Issues
So talking about the child rights issues, Kumari is isolated from their families and friends. She has limited social interactions. She should focus on religious duties and rituals. In past days, Kumaris were even not allowed to get the formal education. But in present time, Nepal Supreme Court has ordered the Government of Nepal to provide basic health care and education to Kumari. They have set the time between 12 PM and 4 PM to get the education from the home tutor. She can get the necessary skills and knowledge. Those skills will help her when she moves back to normal life after her tenure as Living Goddesses.
Social Pressures
Kumari is regarded as pure and unblemished. It is said that any visible imperfection in her behavior or looks will bring bad luck. She shouldn’t get any cuts and blemishes in the entire tenure. Because of this, there is huge pressure to maintain the perfect image. So, she lives in the Kumari Ghar, where her daily activity is strictly controlled.
She is restricted for playing freely with friends or attending regular schools. She is even not allowed touch the ground with her feet except in the place she is worshiped. It is believed that it creates bad luck if Kumari touches the ground .This isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and a lack of social skills necessary for later life.
Silent and calm expression
Not only above restrictions, she should also maintain her silent and calm expression. It is believed that Kumari should not cry, laugh, tremble, smile or show any other expression when she meet you. The Kumari’s facial expressions are closely monitored by her visitors. Each expression can be interpreted as a sign or omen:
- Crying or Loud Laughter: Indicates serious illness or death
- Weeping or Rubbing Eyes: Suggests imminent death.
- Trembling: indicates imprisonment.
- Hand Clapping: Signals fear regarding the king.
- Picking at Food Offerings: indicates financial losses.
- Remaining Silent and Impassive: This is seen as a positive sign, suggesting that the wishes of the devotees have been granted.
Superstitious
It is believed that the Kumari’s husband will die shortly if she gets married. This superstitious will add pressure not only on the Kumari but also on her family. It can lead to pressure and mental disturbance to the family about future marital life for their daughter after her tenure ends.
Modernization and Tradition
In Nepalese society, there is a balance between modernism and tradition in the Kumari tradition. People are still following old customs and traditions peacefully by upgrading some aspects like education. Here are some points on modernization of the Kumari tradition and maintaining its cultural heritage:
Education system:
In past, Kumaris did not receive any formal education during their tenure as living goddesses. For example, Rashmila Shakya was the former Kumari from 1984 to 1991. She told about the lack of education during her tenure.
But, Nepal Supreme Court ordered the Nepal Government for providing the better education and health care for Kumari. In present, Kumari can receive education and a private tutor inside the Kumari house. She can even take part in national exams staying inside the palace.
Preeti Shakya was the first Kumari to receive formal education during her tenure.
Support for former Kumari:
The former Kumaris are now receiving different support from the Government. She gets scholarships and pensions which help them to smoothly run their life.
Changing Social Perceptions:
In past, it was said that the Kumari can’t get married. Anyone who marries Kumari will die shortly. But, in modern time, this perception has been changed. A lot of Kumaris are married and even living a happy married life.
Even there is modernization in certain aspects, many traditional aspects of the Kumari practice remain unchanged. Here are some traditional aspects which are still followed:
Festivals and rituals:
Kumari tradition has been continued from many years. Daily rituals in the Kumari house is done every day whereas she only comes in front of public in special occasions like Indrajatra. Also in public appearance, she must follow strict rules. She must not show strong emotions.
Gautam Prasad Shakya, a caretaker at the Kumari Ghar said that there is an upgrade in education system but the core rituals is same as before. There is a balance between maintaining traditions, respecting culture and adapting to modernization.
Etiquette for Visiting Kumari Ghar
As we already know that, the Kumari Ghar is house of the Living Goddess Kumari. It is one of the most sacred places in Kathmandu, Nepal. If you plan to visit this place, it’s important to understand the etiquette and experience to ensure you respect the traditions. Here’s a guide to help you navigate your trip to the Kumari Ghar:
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Timing:
The Kumari Ghar is open to visitors during specific hours, usually in the morning and sometimes in the evening. You should always know and check the temple’s visiting hours before visiting to avoid any disappointment.
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Dress appropriately:
Visitors should wear the cloth that covers shoulders and legs. You should avoid wearing revealing clothing. This shows respect for the sacred nature of the Kumari and her traditions.
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Remove Shoes:
You can remove your shoes before entering the Kumari Ghar or its courtyard. It also shows a sign of respect.
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Maintain silence:
You should speak softly and avoid loud noises inside the Kumari house. This helps maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
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Do not touch:
You should not touch or attempt to make physical contact with the Kumari. You should not even touch the sacred objects inside the Kumari Ghar.
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Seek Permission for Photography:
Photography may be allowed in certain areas. But always ask for permission before taking photos of the Kumari or her surroundings.
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Avoid Food or Drinks:
You should not bring food or drinks inside the Kumari Ghar. Even do not litter or damage anything inside the house. This helps to keep the area respected and clean.
Name list of Kumari’s till now
Royal Kumari of Kathmandu
Name | Address | Date | Family status |
Hira Maiya Shakya | Wotu | 1922–1923 | Married |
Chini Shova Shakya | Lagan | 1923–1931 | Married/ 2 daughter |
Chandra Devi Shakya | Asonchuka | 1931–1933 | Married/ 2 daughter |
Dil Kumari Shakya | Lagan | 1933–1942 | Married/ 3 son 1 daughter |
Nani Shova Shakya | Ombahal | 1942–1949 | Married/ 4 sons, 2 daughters |
Kayo Mayju Shakya | Kwahiti | 1949–1955 | Married/ 1 son, 1 daughter |
Harsha Lakshmi Shakya | Naghal | 1955–1961 | Married/ 2 sons |
Nani Mayju Shakya | Naghal | 1961–1969 | Married/ 1 son, 2 daughters |
Sunina Shakya | Ombahal | 1969–1978 | Married/ 1 son, 1 daughter |
Anita Shakya | Sikamoobahal | 1978–1984 | Married |
Rashmila Shakya | Kwahiti | 1984–1991 | Married |
Amita Shakya | Asanbahal | 1991–2001 | Unmarried |
Preeti Shakya | Itumbahal | 2001-2008 | Unmarried |
Matina Shakya | Itumbahal | 2008–2017 | Unmarried |
Trishna Shakya | Ombahal | 2017- till now |
Recently appointed in 8th September, 2017 |
Kumari of Patan:
Name | Address |
Date |
Dhana Kumari Bajracharya | Patan | 1954–1984 |
Sumika Bajracharya | Patan | 1994-2001 |
Chanira Bajracharya | Patan | 2001–2010 |
Samita Bajracharya | Patan | 2010–2014 |
Unika Bajracharya | Patan | 2014–2018 |
Nihira Bajracharya | Patan | 2018- till now |
Kumari of Bungamati:
Name |
Address | Date |
Ganga Bajracharya | Bungamati |
1996–1997 |
Jamuna Bajracharya |
Bungamati | 1996–1997 |
Rashmi Bajracharya | Bungamati |
1998–2001 |
Sophiya Bajracharya |
Bungamati | 2007–2011 |
Diya Bajracharya | Bungamati |
2011–2014 |
Smrity Bajracharya |
Bungamati | 2014–2015 |
Kinjal Bajracharya | Bungamati |
2015–2018 |
Kripa Bajracharya |
Bungamati | 2018–2022 |
Yubika Bajracharya | Bungamati |
2022- till now |
Conclusion
The Living Goddess Kumari tradition is a special part of Nepal’s culture. It also shows us how old beliefs can still be important today. It’s amazing to think about how a young girl’s life can be so different from ours and living as a goddess. While some people worry about how this affects the girls, others see it as a valuable tradition. Whether you believe in Kumari’s divine powers or not, her story helps us see how traditions can connect people and keep history alive.
In the end, the Kumari tradition is about real people. It’s about the girls who become goddesses, their families, and the community that believes in them. It’s a reminder that even in our modern world, there’s still room for wonder and belief in something greater than us.