What's happened
Aryatara Shakya, aged 2 years 8 months, has been chosen as the new Kumari, a living goddess, in Kathmandu. She was paraded through the streets during Dashain, a major festival, before entering her temple home. The previous Kumari, now 11, left her role in 2017.
What's behind the headline?
The selection of Aryatara Shakya as the new Kumari underscores Nepal's continued adherence to ancient religious practices that blend Hindu and Buddhist traditions. The parade through Kathmandu during Dashain highlights the cultural significance of the role, which is both spiritual and political, as the Kumari blesses national leaders including the president. The tradition sustains a unique cultural identity but also raises questions about the rights and well-being of the girls involved. The previous Kumari, Trishna Shakya, who stepped down in 2017 at age 11, exemplifies the transition from divine child to mortal, marking the end of her sacred role. This ritual, rooted in centuries-old beliefs, will likely persist, reinforcing Nepal’s cultural heritage amid modern societal changes. The public display and reverence reflect a society that values tradition, yet the role's implications for the girls' childhood and autonomy remain subjects of ongoing debate.
What the papers say
The articles from NY Post, South China Morning Post, and The Independent all confirm the recent selection of Aryatara Shakya as the new Kumari in Kathmandu. While the NY Post provides detailed insights into the selection process and her family’s perspective, the South China Morning Post emphasizes the cultural context during Dashain. The Independent offers background on the tradition's historical and religious significance, including the previous Kumari's departure in 2017. Despite slight variations in detail, all sources agree on the core facts: Aryatara's age, her parade during Dashain, and her upcoming role as a blessing to the nation. The coverage collectively highlights the cultural importance and ongoing relevance of this ancient practice in Nepal.
How we got here
The Kumari tradition in Nepal involves selecting young girls between ages 2 and 4 who are believed to embody divine qualities. The selection process emphasizes physical perfection and fearlessness. The role is considered highly sacred, with the girl expected to bless devotees and the nation. The tradition is linked to Hindu and Buddhist beliefs and is celebrated during major festivals like Dashain and Indra Jatra.
Go deeper
Common question
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Who Is Aryatara Shakya and What Is Her Role as Kumari?
The recent selection of Aryatara Shakya as Nepal's new Kumari has sparked curiosity about this ancient tradition. Many wonder who she is, what her role entails, and why this practice remains so significant in Nepalese culture. Below, you'll find answers to common questions about the Kumari tradition, the selection process, and its cultural importance.
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Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a country in South Asia. It is mainly in the Himalayas, but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It is the 49th largest country by population and 93rd largest country by area.
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Dashain or Bada'dashain, also referred as Vijaya Dashami in Sanskrit, is a major Hindu religious festival in Nepal and the Indian states of Sikkim and West Bengal. It is also celebrated by Hindus of Nepal and elsewhere in the world, including among the...