New Royal Kumari Takes First Public Tour of Kathmandu During Indra Jatra

Kathmandu welcomed the newly installed Royal Kumari for her first official outing on the streets of the capital during the annual Indra Jatra festival. The tradition, which dates back centuries, sees a pre‑pubescent girl revered as a living goddess and carried in procession to bless the city. This year, the Kumari was escorted by priests, musicians and a crowd of devotees as she visited key heritage sites, including the historic Durbar Square and the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa. Observers noted the solemn atmosphere, with chants and traditional drums accompanying the procession. The appearance marks the beginning of the Kumari’s one‑year tenure, during which she will remain secluded in the Kumari Ghar until the next selection ceremony.