Nepal gets a new 'Kumari'

A new Ekanta Kumari has been selected in Nepal, who is worshipped as a living goddess in the historic city of Bhaktapur.

Five-year-old Jibika Bajracharya was selected to replace the former living goddess Junisha Shakya, who retired after a two-year term on March 26, reports the Himalayan Times.

Taleju temple's chief leader Narendra Prasad Joshi confirmed Bajracharya's appointment.

Bajracharya is from Kwache neighbourhood of Bhaktapur Municipality-11 and is the daughter of Jiva Chandra Bajracharya (43) and Bimala Bajracharya (41).

She was recommended for the revered position to the Guthi Sansthan, Bhaktapur, yesterday.

The Kumari's considered as the living goddess is selected from among girls aged between two and eight from the Shakya and Bajracharya families.

They are selected as per their auspicious birth signs and other abilities and in guardians' consent.

As per the tradition, Ekanta Kumari is taken to the Basantapur's Kumari Ghar on the day of Gathasthapana of Bada Dashain festival and she stays there throughout the festival.

She is allowed to go to school, her maternal uncle's house and visit all the three districts within Kathmandu Valley and receives a monthly allowance of Rs. 3,150.