Some 108 girls aged below 10 took part in the ancient Kumari Puja, a part of the Indra Jatra festival, which  is dedicated to the King of Gods in Hindu mythology on Monday at Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Nepal. Nepalese celebrate the Indra Jatra Festival to celebrate the befalling of Indra into human world. / China News Photo

In Nepalese culture, Kumari refers to a living goddess. / China News Photo

On the occasion of Kumari Puja, a Kumari would be taken to the temple of Taleju Bhawani to receive blessings and power. / China News Photo

The 108 young girls, similarly dressed up and painted on their forehead with red and yellow, were believed to be possessing the divine nature as well. They would be blessed with protection from diseases and evil forces if they worship Taleju on the occasion of Kumari Puja. / China News Photo

The living goddess, who is believed to be a reincarnation of the Hindu goddess Durga or Taleju, is worshiped by both Hindus and Buddhists. The tradition of the worshipping ceremony has lasted centuries. / China News Photo