Watch Living Goddess

Living Goddess is a beautiful and moving documentary film from 2008 that takes the viewer on a journey into the world of the Kumari, the living goddesses of Nepal. The film follows the life of Sajani Shakya, a young girl who is selected to become a Kumari, and explores the intricate and complex rituals and beliefs that surround this ancient tradition.

The film begins with the preparations for Sajani's selection as a Kumari. She must go through a long and rigorous process of purification, during which she is isolated from the outside world and subjected to intense physical and spiritual training. We see her family preparing for the arrival of the priests who will perform the selection ceremony, and we witness the tense, emotional moment when Sajani is chosen to be the next Kumari.

From there, the film takes us deeper into the world of the Kumari, exploring the rituals and beliefs that govern their lives. We witness Sajani's daily routines, which are filled with prayer and meditation, and we see her interacting with her family, her attendants, and the visitors who come to seek her blessing.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the way it captures the beauty and majesty of the Kumari. We see Sajani in all her glory, adorned in her ceremonial dress and makeup, surrounded by the vibrant colors and rich textures of her surroundings. The camera lingers on her face, capturing the subtle expressions and movements that convey the depth of her spiritual power.

But the film also delves into the darker aspects of the Kumari tradition. We see the isolation and loneliness that the Kumari must endure, cut off from the outside world and unable to form lasting relationships. We witness the pressure and scrutiny that Sajani must endure, as everyone around her constantly evaluates and judges her every move. And we see the pain that her family feels, as they struggle to reconcile their love for their daughter with the demands of tradition.

Throughout the film, we are treated to stunning visuals of Nepal and its people, from the crowded streets of Kathmandu to the serene beauty of the countryside. The film takes us into the homes and lives of ordinary Nepalis, giving us a glimpse into the richness and diversity of their culture.

Overall, Living Goddess is a powerful and intimate look at one of the world's most fascinating and mysterious traditions. It is a film that will move and inspire viewers, and leave them with a deeper appreciation for the spiritual and cultural richness of Nepal.

Living Goddess is a 2007 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.