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Last Updated: Wednesday July 04 2007 14:02 GMT

In pictures: Living goddesses of Nepal

Sajani Shakya is worshipped as a living goddess, or Kumari, in Nepal, east Asia.

Ten-year-old Sajani Shakya has been worshipped as a living goddess, or Kumari, in Nepal, east Asia, since the age of two. But what is a Kumari?

Sajani

Kumaris are believed to be the living version of the Hindu mother goddess Durga. They're worshipped by Buddhists and Hindus for protection and their blessings are also believed to cure illnesses.

Buddhists and Hindus worship a Kumari for protection. They also believe her blessings can cure illness.

The top three Kumaris are forbidden from leaving Nepal. Sajani went to the USA and it looked like she was to lose her role, but instead took part in a special ceremony.

Girls have to pass 32 rituals and tests to be chosen as a Kumari.

Girls have to pass lots of tests to be chosen as a Kumari. They include having perfect hair, eyes and teeth and not being afraid of the dark.

Sajani getting ready for school

After an early morning ceremony, Sajani has to put away her golden Kumari dress and get ready for school. Until recently, Kumaris had to have private teachers, but now most of them are allowed to go to their local school.

The morning ritual for school pupils is compulsory - even for a living goddess like Sajani, who is treated just the same as her friends when they're in class.

Despite her goddess status, Sajani is treated just the same as her friends when they're in class.

Sajani

Some girls like Sajani say it is difficult for Kumaris to get used to living normal lives again.






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