Historical and Mythological Origins of the Ghode Jatra Festival
The origins of the Ghode Jatra festival in Nepal can be dated back to the period when the Malla Dynasty used to rule in Nepal during the 12th to the 18th century. It is believed that under King Gunakamadeva’s reign in the 15th century, the first horse parade was organized. Since then, the festival has continued.
Some legends also say that, during the reign of the king Jayanta Rana, the festival was started as a ritual to ward off the demon Tundi. When it was first started, it was the 17th century during the Malla dynasty’s rule in Nepal.
The most told story about the festival celebration is the story of the Tundi. Although there is no proof, people strongly believe it. Legends say that in ancient times, there was a demon named Tundi who terrorized the people of Kathmandu.
To scare him away from Kathmandu, they used to run the horses around the Tundikhel. During the horse race, the Tundi were trampled to death by horses. Since then, on the death day of the demon, the Ghode Jatra festival celebrations have become a tradition.
Over the years, people begin to celebrate the festival as a cultural event. Various activities like horse parades and other activities like horse racing and public participation.
Key Events and Celebrations During Ghode Jatra
The Ghode Jatra festival in Nepal is celebrated with various events and festivities. In the events and celebrations, the Nepalese army plays a central role in organizing them. Their participation highlights the cultural and historical importance of the horses in Nepal.
The key events and celebrations for the Ghode Jatra 2081 include:
- Grand horse parade, horse races, and other activities.
The grand horse parade and procession is the central event during the Ghode Jatra festival in Kathmandu. It takes place in a large open ground in Tundikhel. In the event, the Nepali army organized the parade, showcasing their cavalry skills through precision drills and choreographed routines.
A horse race is also organized at the same event. The participants demonstrate their skills in front of high-ranking officials, including the President and Prime Minister of Nepal. In the grand horse parade and horse race, about 60 horses participate and perform various moves and stunts.
In the events, participants also perform motorcycle performances, rescue exercises, paratrooper displays, acrobatics, and gymnastics. All these high-risk activities are performed by the Nepal army.
- Traditional dances, music, and cultural attire
The traditional dances and music are a fundamental part of the Ghode Jatra celebrations. The parade is accompanied by the traditional music, with the sound of drums and other instruments filling the air. There are other traditional musical rhythms also played there.
At the events, dancers wear bright and colorful clothes and perform on different songs. They show their special dance movies that add excitement to the event. The attire dancers and riders wore is often the traditional attire.
Those who are performing in the parade are well-dressed in their parade uniform. This attire includes intricate designs and patterns that reflect Nepal's cultural diversity. The horses are also adorned with vibrant attire and ceremonial decorations.
- Family gatherings and involvement of local communities
During the Ghode Jatra festival, Newari families gather in one place and celebrate it. In their celebrations, various feasts are made and shared. This tradition brings the families together. On this day, married sisters and daughters are invited home to celebrate the festival together.
There are public holidays on the Ghode Jatra day in Kathmandu too. On this day, local communities gather around the Tundikhel to witness the grand horse parade and other performances.
Rituals and Customs Associated with Ghode Jatra 2081
The Ghode Jatra festival in Nepal holds religious importance too. It is celebrated with various rituals and customs as listed below.
- Worship of horses and the rituals performed
Before the grand horse parade and procession, the horses are worshipped. The horses have a special place in Nepalese culture and symbolize power, strength, and nobility. So, the horses are worshiped. This unique ritual also indicates the friendship between humans and animals.
- The involvement of locals in different ceremonies
The locals play an important role in the several ceremonies and festivities of Ghode Jatra 2081. The local communities, like the Newar community, organize the feasts at home. These gatherings foster the unity of the communities.
There is also involvement of the locals in the cultural performances, including traditional dances like the Matya dance and the display of giant Lakhey figures representing forest spirits. The music bands featuring traditional instruments such as the maja, Madal, and harmonium add to the festive atmosphere.
- Feast preparations and sharing
During the Ghode Jatra, traditional dishes like Yomari (a sweet rice cake), Sel Roti (a sweet, ring-shaped rice bread), and various other local delicacies are prepared. And when all the family members are gathered in one place, then it is shared among them.
- Lighting of Incense, Animal Sacrifice, and Offerings to the Gods
The lighting of incense, animal sacrifice, and offering feasts to the gods are part of the rituals of the Ghode Jatra 2081. In the ritual, an intensity is lit in places like temples and homes. It is done to honor the ancestors and seek their blessings.
Furthermore, animal sacrifice is a customary practice followed since ancient times. It is not the main part of the festivities but is followed by people as the traditions. In this ritual, animals are sacrificed to the god and are consumed as the prasad. Along with the animal, other feasts are also offered to the god, including sweets and fruits. It is one of the popular ways to seek blessings from the god.
- Prayers for good health, prosperity, and protection from evil.
Without prayers, there are no festival celebrations that start. It is an important part of the Ghode Jatra festival celebrations. People visit the nearby temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and other deities like Bhairav, Bhadrakali, and Kankeshwari to offer the prayers.
The prayers are offered to gods for good health, prosperity, and protection from evil. It is an age-old tradition transferred from generation to generation.
FAQs
The frequently asked questions for the Ghode Jatra festival in Nepal 2081 are answered below.
1. Who started Ghode Jatra in Nepal?
There are several answers regarding the person who started the Ghode Jatra festival in Nepal. Some say that it was King Jayanta Rana who started it, while some say that it was King Gunakamadeva. The king Pratap Malla's name was also mentioned in the stories.
2. Why is Ghode Jatra celebrated?
The Ghode Jatra is celebrated to honor the victory of good over evil. The festival is believed to ward off the evil spirits by trampling the demon underfoot with horses. Furthermore, people also celebrate this festival as a time for the arrival of the spring season.
FInal Sayings
The Ghode Jatra festival in Nepal 2025 is a unique festival that you shouldn't miss. This festival offers the opportunity to witness the grand celebrations with key activities like a grand horse parade, horse race, and other equestrian skills.
Being celebrated on March 29, this festival is the time when you will get to witness the various religious activities along with the grand event on Tundikhel. So, visit Nepal to witness this annual celebration.
