News
September 07, 2025
Nepal festival starts with parade for a living goddess
Tens of thousands of devotees have celebrated the start of Nepal's festival season by gathering in Kathmandu.
Kathmandu burst into a vibrant spectacle of color and devotion as tens of thousands gathered to celebrate the start of Nepal's festival season. The highlight of the opening day was a grand parade honoring a living goddess, a tradition deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the nation.
The parade, a meticulously planned procession, wound its way through the ancient streets of Kathmandu, drawing onlookers from every corner of the city. The air was thick with the scent of incense and the rhythmic beat of traditional drums, creating an atmosphere both reverent and festive. At the heart of the parade was the Kumari, a young girl chosen as the living embodiment of the goddess Taleju.
The Kumari, selected through a rigorous process based on specific physical attributes and astrological compatibility, is considered a deity until she reaches puberty. Carried on a ornate palanquin, she is shielded from public view except during specific religious ceremonies, making her appearances all the more significant for devotees.
The festival marks a crucial period in the Nepali calendar, signifying renewal, prosperity, and spiritual cleansing. It is a time for families to come together, offer prayers, and participate in various religious rituals. The presence of the living goddess is believed to bring blessings and protection to the entire kingdom.
"This festival is more than just a tradition; it's a lifeline to our heritage," explained a local resident, beaming with pride as the parade passed by. "Seeing the Kumari reminds us of the power of faith and the importance of preserving our cultural identity."
The parade route was lined with devotees hoping to catch a glimpse of the Kumari, believing that even a fleeting moment of eye contact with the living goddess can bring good fortune. Security was tight, ensuring the safety and well-being of the Kumari and the thousands of participants.
The festival is expected to continue for several days, with various events planned across Kathmandu Valley. It serves as a powerful reminder of Nepal's rich cultural heritage and the enduring strength of its traditions, attracting not only locals but also tourists from around the globe eager to witness this unique and captivating spectacle.
The parade, a meticulously planned procession, wound its way through the ancient streets of Kathmandu, drawing onlookers from every corner of the city. The air was thick with the scent of incense and the rhythmic beat of traditional drums, creating an atmosphere both reverent and festive. At the heart of the parade was the Kumari, a young girl chosen as the living embodiment of the goddess Taleju.
The Kumari, selected through a rigorous process based on specific physical attributes and astrological compatibility, is considered a deity until she reaches puberty. Carried on a ornate palanquin, she is shielded from public view except during specific religious ceremonies, making her appearances all the more significant for devotees.
The festival marks a crucial period in the Nepali calendar, signifying renewal, prosperity, and spiritual cleansing. It is a time for families to come together, offer prayers, and participate in various religious rituals. The presence of the living goddess is believed to bring blessings and protection to the entire kingdom.
"This festival is more than just a tradition; it's a lifeline to our heritage," explained a local resident, beaming with pride as the parade passed by. "Seeing the Kumari reminds us of the power of faith and the importance of preserving our cultural identity."
The parade route was lined with devotees hoping to catch a glimpse of the Kumari, believing that even a fleeting moment of eye contact with the living goddess can bring good fortune. Security was tight, ensuring the safety and well-being of the Kumari and the thousands of participants.
The festival is expected to continue for several days, with various events planned across Kathmandu Valley. It serves as a powerful reminder of Nepal's rich cultural heritage and the enduring strength of its traditions, attracting not only locals but also tourists from around the globe eager to witness this unique and captivating spectacle.
Category:
World