A two-year-old girl, Ar-yataru Shakya, has become the new Kumari in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. This unique event was marked by a ceremonial procession of the girl from her home to the temple palace, where she will live for the next few years. People welcomed her with respect and presented her with gifts during the procession through the streets of the city.
According to tradition, Ar-yataru replaced the previous Kumari, Trishna Shakya, who underwent the same rituals in her time. This new goddess will receive her first blessings from worshippers on Thursday, October 2, among whom will be the country's president.
It is worth noting that Kumaris are chosen from girls aged two to four from a specific Newar community in the Kathmandu valley. They must be impeccably beautiful and unafraid of the dark.
This tradition holds great significance for society, and the family of the Kumari receives special prestige. However, the girl herself lives separated from the world, with a limited circle of communication, and only leaves the palace a few times a year for festive celebrations.
A two-year-old girl in Kathmandu has become the new Kumari, a goddess that is an important symbol for the Nepali people. Choosing such a small child for this honorable role is a significant event, celebrated with a ceremonial procession to the temple palace, blessings from the worshippers, and a life in seclusion from the ordinary environment.