KATHMANDU, April 8: Ghode Jatra, also known as Horse Racing Day, is being celebrated in Kathmandu today. The government has granted a public holiday on the occasion within the Valley.
A special program is being organized at Tundikhel where a Nepali Army cavalry team will perform different equestrian stunts.
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It is believed that a demon who lived in a meadow, which is now at Tundikhel, used to unleash terror in Kathmandu, particularly targeting children. After his death, people rejoiced by dancing on his body and riding horses. There is also a belief that the parade of horses at Tundikhel keeps the demon’s spirit away.
The horse parade, religiously known as Aswa Yatra, is also organized to welcome the New Year.
