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The Living Goddess

The living goddess Kumari

In the Director’s office hangs an intricately hand-carved banyan wood frame with a picture of Mt. Everest. The frame is a replica of a window on the palace of Kumari – the living goddess – in Kathmandu. On very special days in Nepal, faithful supporters may visit the palace and, upon making a donation, obtain a rare glimpse of the goddess and be blessed.

When the Patterson School receives support from our friends and alumni, a similar phenomenon occurs. A picture of the smiling Kumari appears in the wood frame, with Everest just over her shoulder. She signals to all the strength of the program, our lofty goals, and the fact we have once more benefited from the kindness of our followers.

Visitors frequently pop into the office just to see if Kumari is making an appearance. They know her secret. While Kumari is always smiling, when our students spot her they often beam, and laugh. They know it is a very special day.

Your contributions make our students feel blessed.

Facts about the Kumari Devi

For centuries there has been a living goddess in Kathmandu.  She resides in the Kumari Ghar, an ornate palace near Durbar Square.  The Kumari is chosen from eligible 4 to 7 year old Buddhist girls belonging to the Newar Shakya caste (the group to which Buddha belonged) and serves until puberty.  Selection criteria include, proper serenity, composure and excellent health, as well as the “32 perfections of a goddess,” which range from possessing beautiful cow-like eyelashes to having a voice as soft as a duck.  During her holy life, all the Kumari’s needs are met and her feet will never touch the ground. The Kumari’s power is believed to be so strong that even a glimpse of her brings good fortune. Visitors often gather in the palace courtyard, hoping to spot her through its upper-story latticed windows.