Kathmandu: President Ramchandra Paudel has observed the ‘Ghode Jatra Ceremony-2081’ organized in the capital city today. The ceremony was attended by a number of high-profile dignitaries including Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Speaker Devra Ghimire, Chairperson of the National Assembly Narayan Dahal, Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut, along with Deputy Prime Minister, Ministers, and heads of diplomatic missions in Nepal.
According to National News Agency Nepal, President Paudel watched different equestrian stunts performed by a cavalry of the Nepal Army. These stunts included horseracing and horse jumping, adding to the grandeur of the event. Additionally, art performances by dogs were showcased, contributing to the day’s attractions.
President Paudel awarded prizes to the outstanding performers at the event. Ghode Jatra is recognized as the oldest festival celebrated in the cultural hub of the Valley. Its origins are tied to a mythology involving the demise of a demon named Tundi. The demon, who resided on a meadow now known as Tundikhel, was believed to terrorize residents of Kathmandu. Following his death, celebrations involved dancing on his body while riding horses.
It is believed that the horse parade at Tundikhel helps keep the demon’s spirit at bay, with the speed of the horses being crucial to dispelling Tundi’s spirit. The festival occurs on Krishna Aunsi, according to the lunar calendar, a day before the Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, marking the beginning of the New Year.
The religious horse parade, known as Aswa Yatra, is organized to welcome the New Year. The day preceding Ghode Jatra is referred to as Pichas Chaturdarshi in the lunar calendar. In Lalitpur, a tradition of racing a black horse is followed to celebrate the festival.