Kumari simply means young (virgin) girls in Nepali language. A pre-pubescent young girl is selected (with all requirements) from Shakya family and is honoured and worshipped as living goddess, Kumari. Kumari is the incarnation of goddess Taleju Bhawani.

When she sits on her throne, she receives visitors ranging from commoners to top government officials. It is believed that her blessings bring peace and prosperity in the country.