The newly-announced Kumari Aryatara Shakya was ushered into the house (with photo)

Kathmandu – The newly-announced Kumari, Aryatara Shakya, has formally been installed into the Kumari House. On Tuesday she was ceremonially given her seat.

The local Kumari, aged two and a half years, was seated in the Kumari House at an auspicious time in the afternoon. With special musical honors, she was brought into the Kumari House after worship of Taleju Bhawani.

The Kumari is worshiped as a living goddess.

It is believed that the then-King Jayaprakash Malla established the tradition of the Kumari. In accordance with the Kumari selection procedure, Aryatara was selected as the new Kumari following consultations and advice involving the Guthi institution, the Panchang (astrological) decision committee, and other concerned parties.

During the selection process, all affiliated offices were asked to recommend names. Upon Aryatara’s formal installation, the former Kumari, Trishna Shakya, was officially bid farewell.