The midday sun illuminated the bustling streets of Kathmandu as the Sharma family’s vehicle weaved its way through the narrow lanes. Babu, their experienced guide, turned to them with pride in his voice as he pointed out the significance of their surroundings.
“We are now entering Durbar Square,” Babu announced. “This place is the heart of Kathmandu’s history, once serving as the royal palace complex where kings were crowned and ruled over the valley. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to some of Nepal’s most beautiful temples, courtyards, and statues.”
He explained that although vehicles were usually not allowed in the square to preserve its sanctity and protect the ancient structures, exceptions were made during certain times to ease congestion. The energy of the bustling square spilled out onto the surrounding streets, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
As they turned a corner, a magnificent building caught their eye. Its intricately carved wooden windows and crimson-painted walls exuded a sense of reverence that captured their admiration.
“What is that?” Sophie asked, captivated by the sight.
“That,” Babu replied, “is the Kumari Ghar, the residence of the Kumari, the living goddess.”
The family gazed in awe at the majestic Kumari Ghar, its presence commanding respect and admiration.
Babu then shared with them the significance of the upcoming Festival of Lights, Jyoti Utsav, which would culminate with the full moon in two weeks. This month-long celebration honored the divine energy of the Kumari and the gods of light and renewal, with devotees lighting oil lamps and offering prayers for safe passage and blessings.
The preparations for the festival were already underway in the square, with strings of marigolds adorning balconies and the sweet scent of incense filling the air. Babu explained that the festival began with the appearance of the new moon, a time of cleansing and preparation leading up to the grand celebration on the full moon.
As they continued their journey through the streets of Kathmandu, Babu shared stories of the Kumari’s power and the special significance of this year’s festival. He mentioned a sense of heightened energy in the air, with the moon bearing an unusual aura that hinted at something momentous on the horizon.
Harrison, intrigued by Babu’s words, felt drawn to the Kumari Ghar as they passed by. His encounter with the young Kumari on the balcony left him with a profound sense of connection and purpose, as if a cosmic task had been set before him.
The family watched in awe as Harrison’s interaction with the Kumari unfolded, sensing the weight of the moment and the mysterious bond that seemed to have formed between them.
Babu, recognizing the significance of the moment, explained to Harrison and the family the divine nature of the Kumari and her role as a living deity embodying the spirit of Nepal.
The mystical encounter with the Kumari left Harrison contemplating the profound experience, feeling a sense of destiny entwined with the living goddess and a future full of unknown possibilities.
The journey to Kathmandu and the encounter with the Kumari had opened a door to a world of mystery and spirituality, setting the Sharma family on a path of discovery and introspection.