Written by: Sanskar Sharma - 29051, Grade V
Posted on: 09 December, 2021
Nepal is the only country that worships humans. The Kumari is the only living goddess worshiped by both Hindus and Buddhists. The literal meaning of Kumari is ‘Virgin’. A Kumari is a prepubescent girl chosen from the Nepalese Newari Buddhist community's Shakya caste. It is believed that Kumari receive the power of Goddess Kali and Taleju. A Kumari is usually chosen for one day and worshiped appropriately at specific festivals such as Navratri or Durga Puja. They choose Kumari by sacrificing animals and making scary noises and who is the bravest will be chosen. The main target of a Kumari puja is to realize the potential divinity in every human being, mostly female. Kumari puja is celebrated in Kathmandu Valley only.
