By: Addie Chiphang
Ukhrul, October 15:
In a moment of deep emotional significance and historic pride, the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) and the Tangkhul Naga Awunga Long (TNAL) have announced a grand ceremonial welcome for Ato Kilonser (Prime Minister) Thuingaleng Muivah, the revered leader of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim / Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (NSCN/GPRN), popularly known among his people as AvàKharar. The much-anticipated homecoming is scheduled for October 22, marking Muivah’s return to Ukhrul and his native village Somdal after a gap of nearly five decades.
A Homecoming Etched in History
The announcement of Ato Kilonser Th. Muivah’s homecoming has sent waves of excitement and profound joy throughout the Tangkhul region. For many, this is not just the return of a leader—it is the return of a son of the soil whose life, sacrifices, and ideals have shaped the modern political consciousness of the Naga people.
Qr. Eno. Sword Vashum, the President of Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL)—the apex body of the Tangkhul Naga tribe—hailed the forthcoming event as “a dream long cherished by every Tangkhul, young and old, rich and poor alike.”
“The return of Ato Kilonser Th. Muivah after fifty long years is not merely a visit; it is a historic moment that will be recorded as one of the most significant days in the contemporary history of the Naga movement,” said the TNL President. “His homecoming symbolizes the unbroken bond between the Tangkhul people and their enduring struggle for identity, justice, and freedom.”
Vashum expressed his personal joy and gratitude, saying that he, along with thousands of Tangkhul citizens, eagerly awaits the opportunity to meet and honor the legendary figure who has stood at the forefront of the Naga political movement for decades.
TNAL Extends Unwavering Support and Cooperation
Echoing this sentiment, Qr. Tennyson, President of the Tangkhul Naga Awunga Long (TNAL)—the federation representing 252 Tangkhul village headmen and chairpersons—extended full cooperation and pledged to lead the grand reception for Th. Muivah and his entourage.
Speaking to journalists, Qr. Tennyson declared, “Thuingaleng Muivah commands the full mandate and confidence of all Tangkhul Naga people. There is no ambiguity or division in our support. He remains our AvàKharar—our guiding light and symbol of unity.”
He announced that the TNAL will organize a traditional red-carpet welcome at the helipad venue, where the Ato Kilonser and his wife will be received by Tangkhul village headmen and their spouses, all adorned in full traditional Tangkhul attire. The ceremonial procession will escort the leader to the main public venue, where a historic reception awaits.
“As a mark of deep respect and love, we will attire our leader and his wife in Tangkhul traditional wear—a gesture of our unbroken cultural and emotional bond with him,” Tennyson added.
A People’s Leader Returns to His Roots
For the Tangkhul community, Thuingaleng Muivah’s return is not just an occasion—it is a pilgrimage of identity and belonging. Having left Somdal more than half a century ago to dedicate his life to the Naga national cause, Muivah has become a living embodiment of endurance, sacrifice, and unyielding faith in the Naga people’s destiny.
Over the decades, he has navigated the complexities of political negotiations, wars, and peace processes, remaining steadfast in his vision for the Naga nation. His leadership of the NSCN/GPRN has been marked by resilience, conviction, and an unwavering commitment to the principle of “Nagalim for Christ”—a vision that continues to inspire generations across the Naga homeland and beyond.
Now, as the 93-year-old leader prepares to set foot once again on the soil of Somdal, the anticipation is electric. For many villagers, this will be the first time they lay eyes on the legendary figure whose name has been spoken with reverence across generations.
Preparation in Full Swing
Across Ukhrul district, preparations are in full swing. Committees are being formed, cultural troupes are rehearsing, and villages are competing to present their finest traditional performances. The roads leading to Somdal are being cleaned and decorated, as excitement sweeps through every Tangkhul household.
The Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) and Tangkhul Naga Awunga Long (TNAL) are coordinating efforts with local churches, student bodies, women’s organizations, and youth unions to ensure that the homecoming reflects the unity, discipline, and cultural richness of the Tangkhul Naga people.
The entire event is being planned as a celebration of Tangkhul identity and the Naga spirit of resilience—a testimony to the bond between the people and their visionary leader.
Faith, Gratitude, and Hope
“We thank the Almighty God for this divine moment,” said a statement from TNL. “It is by His grace that our leader returns to his birthplace after half a century. We see in this homecoming not only a personal return but also the fulfillment of God’s purpose for our people.”
The Tangkhul people are uniting in prayer for AvàKharar’s health, strength, and long life. Special thanksgiving services are being organized in churches across the district, reflecting the community’s faith that this moment marks a new dawn of understanding and renewal for the Naga nation.
“We fervently pray that AvàKharar remains healthy, strong, and capable throughout his journey home,” said TNL President Sword Vashum. “May his visit inspire our younger generation to uphold the values of truth, unity, and peace for which he has dedicated his entire life.”
A Defining Moment in the Naga Journey
For observers and historians alike, Thuingaleng Muivah’s visit represents more than a personal milestone—it is a defining chapter in the Naga political and cultural journey. Few leaders have carried the weight of an entire people’s aspiration on their shoulders for as long as Muivah has. His life has been intertwined with the Naga story itself—its trials, triumphs, and transformation.
As Ukhrul and Somdal prepare to receive their most illustrious son, the event is expected to draw thousands of well-wishers from across the Naga areas and neighboring regions. The sight of Tangkhul men and women—draped in their traditional finery, singing and dancing in joyous unison—will stand as a vivid testament to the enduring strength of Naga unity.
The Spirit of the Moment
On October 22, when Ato Kilonser Thuingaleng Muivah steps onto the land of his birth, it will not merely be a leader returning home—it will be the homecoming of an era.
For the Tangkhul Naga Long, the Tangkhul Naga Awunga Long, and the countless Naga men and women who have carried his vision in their hearts, this homecoming is a reminder that the bond between a leader and his people is eternal—forged not by politics alone, but by shared faith, sacrifice, and destiny.
Indeed, the hills of Ukhrul await the echo of footsteps that have walked the corridors of history. And as the sun rises over Somdal on that historic day, the Tangkhul people will once again lift their voices in unity, proclaiming—
“Welcome home, AvàKharar Thuingaleng Muivah. You are forever our pride.”