President Paudel Attends Ghode Jatra Celebrations in Kathmandu

President Ramchandra Paudel attended the Ghode Jatra Ceremony-2081, a centuries-old festival celebrated in the capital city.

The event was also graced by Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Speaker Devra Ghimire, National Assembly Chair Narayan Dahal, Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut, Deputy Prime Minister, Ministers, foreign diplomats, and other high-ranking government officials.

During the ceremony, President Paudel observed a series of equestrian stunts performed by the Nepal Army cavalry. The event featured horse racing, horse jumping, and canine performances, adding to the spectacle. The president also distributed awards to outstanding performers at the event.

Ghode Jatra is one of the oldest and most significant festivals of the Kathmandu Valley. According to legend, the festival originated after the death of Tundi, a demon who terrorized locals from a meadow that is now Tundikhel. To celebrate his defeat, people rode horses over his body, believing that the galloping hooves would keep his spirit from returning. It is still believed that the faster the horses run, the stronger the protection against the demon’s spirit.

The festival is observed annually on Krishna Aunsi, a day before Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, marking the start of the Nepali New Year. The horse parade, also known as Aswa Yatra, is considered a symbolic gesture to welcome the New Year. Additionally, in Lalitpur, a traditional black horse race is held as part of the celebrations.