Tradition, Modernity, and the Female Body: A Critical Study of the Kumari Tradition in Nepal

International Journal of Humanities and Social Science

© 2025 by SSRG - IJHSS Journal

Volume 12 Issue 2

Year of Publication : 2025

Authors : Priyanshi Poddar

10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V12I2P107

How to Cite?

Priyanshi Poddar, "Tradition, Modernity, and the Female Body: A Critical Study of the Kumari Tradition in Nepal," SSRG International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, vol. 12,  no. 2, pp. 60-71, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V12I2P107

Abstract:

Recently, international movements advocating for gender equality and children's rights have gained widespread support. Simultaneously, we find the existence of a centuries-old tradition of the Kumari in Nepal, where young girls are worshipped as living goddesses. The research paper examines the impact of the tradition on children and women across Nepal by investigating the social and cultural viewpoints and gender dynamics embedded within the tradition. Through detailed interviews and structured surveys conducted among citizens of Nepal, the paper explores personal beliefs, generational divides, and social attitudes toward the continuation of the tradition. The findings revealed a concern for the loss of childhood experiences faced by the Kumari, specially through an educational and social viewpoint. However, despite these concerts, a significant majority of the respondents supported the continued existence of the tradition, including acceptance and adherence to the 35 physical characteristics checked during selection. By analyzing these finances, the paper reveals how the Kumari tradition explored the complexities of the modern human rights framework while highlighting the tension between cultural preservation and the evolving discourse on children's rights and gender equality.

Keywords:

Kumari tradition, Women's rights, Cultural heritage, Child rights, Nepali tradition.

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