Nepal selects two-year-old Aryatara Shakya as Kumari

A two year and eight month old girl has been chosen as Nepal's new Kumari, the living goddess venerated by Hindus and Buddhists, and was carried through Kathmandu to a temple palace on Tuesday as part of the Dashain festival celebrations. Aryatara Shakya succeeds Trishna Shakya, who stepped down after reaching puberty and returning to ordinary life under longstanding custom.

The selection followed traditional criteria used to identify Kumaris, who are chosen between about ages two and four. Candidates are assessed for physical traits described in the ritual selection, including unblemished skin, hair, eyes and teeth, and evaluated for composure and fearlessness. Families of the Shakya clan are eligible for the role; the family of the chosen girl typically gains elevated social standing within the community.

On Tuesday family members and devotees paraded Aryatara through city streets before bringing her into the temple palace that will serve as her residence for several years. Worshippers lined up to touch her feet with their foreheads, a customary sign of reverence, and offered flowers and donations. Officials say the new Kumari is expected to bless devotees, including the...