The historic courtyards of Hanuman Dhoka, Basantapur Durbar Square, came alive today as young Newar girls, dressed to embody divine female energy, gathered for the annual Kumari Puja ritual.
The festival, rooted in centuries-old tradition, sees prepubescent girls worshipped as manifestations of the living goddess Kumari, symbolizing purity, power, and protection. Parents and families accompanied the young participants, many pausing to capture the moment in photographs and selfies, cherishing their daughters' role in this sacred celebration.
In one scene, a young girl reacts with anticipation as she awaits the ritual's commencement, her face painted and adorned with traditional jewelry and red attire. Nearby, mothers tenderly document the occasion on their phones - a blend of reverence and modern-day pride.
Kumari Puja is a significant cultural and spiritual event for the Newar community of the Kathmandu Valley, reinforcing ties between ritual, heritage, and femininity.
(Photos by Niranjan Shrestha/AP)
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