Living Goddess (film)

Living Goddess is a 2017 Swiss-Nepalese documentary film directed by Richard Martini and Isabel Meier. The film explores the tradition of the Kumari, young girls in Nepal who are worshipped as living goddesses until they reach puberty.

The documentary focuses on the lives of several Kumaris and their families, providing insights into the selection process, the daily rituals they perform, and the challenges they face when returning to ordinary life after their reign as goddesses ends. It delves into the cultural significance of the Kumari tradition within Nepali society, examining both the devotion and the controversy surrounding the practice.

The film includes interviews with former Kumaris, religious scholars, and members of the Kumari Selection Committee. It aims to present a balanced perspective, highlighting both the spiritual importance of the Kumari tradition and the potential concerns about the impact on the girls' well-being and education.

The film was released to generally positive reviews, praised for its sensitive portrayal of a unique cultural phenomenon.