Divine Guardian Of A Living Heritage

On the auspicious occasion of Ram Nawami, Ojaswi Gulu's day began earlier than the sun's first rays, marked by a sacred ritual bath. She exchanged her usual attire for a resplendent crimson ensemble, reserved for moments of grand significance like this. Her uncle, Prabin Shrestha, anointed her forehead with a radiant crimson moon adorned with delicate yellow accents, the crown jewel of her ceremonial appearance. The Vajra, her third eye, the mark that sets her apart from ordinary mortals, was meticulously adjusted, completing her transformation.

In her majestic attire, she embarked on a solemn journey to the altar throne in the sanctuary atop her family's abode. Her father, with utmost care, carried her to the Layaku Darbar, a mere 15-minute walk away, where a venerable puja awaited her participation, honoring the goddess Taleju Bhawani, of whom she is considered a living reincarnation. Ojaswi, at the tender age of eight, holds the esteemed title of Kumari, the living deity of Panauti, a venerable ancient town nestled 35 kilometers east of Kathmandu. Chosen when she was a mere eight months old, still cradled by her mother, she now nears the culmination of her extraordinary reign as a living goddess.

"We have already conveyed to the hyumat that she shall soon undergo the rites of Ihi and Gufa, as she has reached the age of menstruation," her mother, Rohini Gulu, elucidates, referencing the custodians of the Kumari's residence. Diverging from the tradition of the royal Kumari in Kathmandu, who resides in a dedicated house in Basantapur, separated from her family, Panauti's living goddess remains in her parents' loving care. She attends school like any other child, reveling in the pleasures of playtime and TV viewing. A typical day involves preparing for school, walking alongside her brother, Manan, and one parent. In class, she, albeit somewhat shy, forges amiable bonds with peers and educators. Mathematics and English are her favored subjects, and she consistently ranks among the top three students.

"Her academic performance was stellar until the lockdown's commencement. The shift to online classes led to her slipping to the second position, but she has always been the class topper otherwise," reveals Rohini. After school, Ojaswi diligently completes her homework, indulges in cartoons, and joyfully cycles with her brother. Though she lives a life akin to any child her age, certain restrictions befit her divine status. As a living goddess, she is barred from donning black attire, sharing plates with others, or having her food handled by women experiencing menstruation. Her safety is paramount, both at home and in school, to prevent any mishap. "We take every precaution to ensure she dines from her own plate, maintaining proper seating arrangements for her comfort, and upholding stringent hygiene standards to safeguard her well-being," attests Bishnu Prasad Dahal, principal of Arunodaya English Secondary School.

At home, she is exempt from household chores, allowing her to concentrate on her studies and recreational activities. Rohini emphasizes, "Even in her divine status, education remains vital for her future, and we prioritize it as much as possible. This preparation will enable her to smoothly transition once she steps down from her role as Kumari."