Nepal’s new Kumari takes part in first Indra Jatra procession
Sep 29, 2026
Kathmandu [Nepal], September 27 (ANI): newly anointed Living Goddess Kumari, Aryatara Shakya, took part in her first Indra Jatra procession as Kathmandu celebrated the traditional week-long festival. Thousands of devotees gathered at Kathmandu Durbar Square despite the rain to catch a glimpse of the Kumari and pay homage to the living deities. Alongside Kumari, the living deities Ganesh and Bhairab were also carried through Kathmandu on traditional chariots. Aryatara Shakya was anointed as the new Kumari last September. The tradition of worshipping a young girl as Kumari is rooted in the Newar community and combines elements of Hinduism and Buddhism. Indra Jatra, dedicated to Lord Indra, the Hindu god of rain, is among Kathmandu’s major cultural festivals.
