Hidden Marriage (Minsung)

Nepal

After few days

As Minho, Jisung, Jennie, and Lisa wandered through the bustling streets of Kathmandu during the vibrant festival of Indra Jatra, their senses were overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of the celebration. Colorful processions filled the narrow alleyways, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of drums and the melodious strains of traditional music.

Curious about the cultural significance of the festival, the four friends approached a kindly-looking priest who stood near one of the ornately decorated temples. "Excuse me, sir," Jennie began, her voice filled with curiosity. "We've heard about the Kumari. Could you tell us more about her?"

The priest smiled warmly at the group, his eyes twinkling with knowledge. "Ah, the Kumari," he said, his voice soft with reverence. "She is a living goddess, revered by the people of Kathmandu as a symbol of purity and divine power."

Intrigued, Lisa leaned in closer, her eyes shining with interest. "But who exactly is the Kumari?" she asked, eager to learn more.

The priest nodded, gesturing for them to follow as he led them towards a nearby temple. "The Kumari is a young girl chosen from the Newar community to serve as the living incarnation of the Hindu goddess Taleju," he explained. "She is worshipped as a deity and holds great spiritual significance in our culture."

As they entered the temple, the friends listened intently as the priest continued to share the fascinating history and traditions surrounding the Kumari. They learned about the rigorous selection process, the strict rituals and protocols that govern her life, and the deep reverence with which she is regarded by the people of Kathmandu.

Moved by the priest's words, Minho, Jisung, Jennie, and Lisa left the temple with a newfound appreciation for the rich tapestry of culture and tradition that permeates the streets of Kathmandu. And as they continued to immerse themselves in the festivities of Indra Jatra, they couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder at the mystical allure of the Kumari and the timeless traditions that have endured for centuries.

Author pov

If you are wondering then I will tell about Kumari ( not me actually chat gpt)
**Kumari Pratha**, also known as the Living Goddess tradition, is a centuries-old cultural and religious practice in Nepal, particularly among the Newar community in the Kathmandu Valley. This tradition involves selecting a young girl, known as a "Kumari," who is believed to be the living embodiment of the goddess Taleju (a form of the goddess Durga).

### Key Aspects of Kumari Pratha:

1. **Selection Process**:
- The selection of a Kumari is a rigorous and elaborate process. The girl chosen must be from the Shakya caste of the Newar community.
- She must pass several tests, including having specific physical attributes that symbolize perfection and purity, such as a body free of scars, unblemished skin, and specific horoscope alignment.
- The final test involves the girl's ability to remain calm and fearless in a room with buffalo heads and other ritualistic symbols meant to evoke a strong emotional response.

2. **Life as a Kumari**:
- Once chosen, the Kumari lives in a palace-like residence called the Kumari Ghar, primarily located in Kathmandu Durbar Square.
- She wears special attire, including red clothes and intricate makeup, and her feet must not touch the ground outside her residence.
- The Kumari is worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists and participates in various religious festivals and ceremonies.

3. **Role and Worship**:
- The Kumari is considered an oracle and is believed to have the power to bestow blessings and predict the future.
- Devotees seek her blessings, believing that her divine energy can cure illnesses and bring good fortune.
- The most significant event involving the Kumari is the Indra Jatra festival, where she is paraded around the city in a chariot.

4. **End of Reign**:
- A Kumari's reign ends with her first menstruation, which signifies the loss of purity required for her divine role.
- She then returns to a normal life, often with a state-sponsored stipend for her services.