The Ghode Jatra is being celebrated today across the Kathmandu Valley on the occasion of Chaitra Krishna Aunsi, as observed every year.
On this occasion, the Nepali Army organizes a grand event at Tundikhel, featuring horse racing, motorcycle stunts, physical exercises, and combat demonstrations.
According to local belief, a demon named Gurumapa once lived in a tree located in the southeast of Tundikhel and used to harm children in the city.
Residents eventually killed the demon, but there remained a fear that its spirit might return and harm children again. To prevent this, the tradition of Ghode Jatra began, where horses are made to run over the ground to symbolically suppress the demon’s spirit.
It is also believed that food is offered at the base of the tree on this night to appease Gurumapa, ensuring the safety of children throughout the year.
The festival is also observed in Lalitpur, where a horse race is held as part of the tradition.
The government has declared a public holiday in the Kathmandu Valley on this occasion.
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