The United Naga Council (UNC) declares October 29 a ‘Genna’ to honour NSCN-IM chief Thuingaleng Muivah’s civic reception in Senapati. Educational institutions and shops across Naga areas will remain closed as communities celebrate unity and Naga identity.
The United Naga Council (UNC), the apex organization representing the Nagas in Manipur, has declared a traditional ‘Genna’ holiday on October 29, coinciding with the civic reception of NSCN-IM supremo Thuingaleng Muivah at Senapati district headquarters. The day will be observed as a mark of deep respect and reverence for the veteran Naga leader’s visit, which carries immense symbolic significance for the Naga community across the region.
What is ‘Genna’?
In Naga customs, ‘Genna’ refers to a traditional observance marked by restrictions on routine activities to ensure collective participation during significant communal or spiritual events. It is a time of reflection, unity, and respect when daily commerce and educational institutions come to a halt to allow full engagement in rituals and community gatherings.
UNC President N.G. Lorho, in an official statement, said that the declaration of Genna is in honour of the “living legend” Muivah and reflects the Naga people’s continued respect for their cultural and political legacy.
“In reverence to our traditions and cultural practices, the Nagas in the present state of Manipur hereby declare a Genna on the occasion of the historic civic reception in honour of Th. Muivah at Tahamzam (Senapati) on October 29,” Lorho said.
“All community members are called upon to declare holidays in educational institutions, close shops, refrain from economic and commercial activities, and participate in gatherings to celebrate the occasion. Uphold the Naga spirit of unity and solidarity,” he added.
A Historic Return to Manipur
Thuingaleng Muivah, now in his 90s, is the Ato Kilonser (Prime Minister) of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) faction, commonly known as NSCN-IM. The group has been a pivotal player in Naga nationalism and peace negotiations with the Indian government for decades.
Muivah’s visit to Manipur marks his first return to his birthplace, Somdal village in Ukhrul district, in nearly 50 years. His homecoming has been described by community leaders as “historic” and “spiritually significant” for the Nagas, particularly at a time when peace talks and aspirations for a unified Naga homeland remain major political concerns.
Arriving by helicopter at Bakshi Ground in Ukhrul district from Nagaland’s Dimapur on October 22, Muivah was greeted by thousands of enthusiastic supporters. The crowd, adorned in vibrant traditional Naga attire and waving NSCN-IM flags, welcomed their leader with chants and songs symbolizing unity and pride.
A Celebration of Identity and Legacy
The reception at Ukhrul was organized by the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), the apex body of the Tangkhul Naga tribe, to honour Muivah and his associates. Traditional dances, folk songs, and speeches highlighting the Naga struggle and resilience filled the air as the leader addressed his people.
Men bearing traditional spears and wearing colourful headgear joined women and youth in a show of solidarity. The mood in Ukhrul, according to observers, reflected a deep sense of pride and renewal of faith in the Naga cause.
Muivah is expected to return to Dimapur via Senapati district on October 29, where the UNC and local Naga organizations have planned an elaborate civic reception. The event is anticipated to attract thousands of participants from across Naga-inhabited regions of Manipur, Nagaland, and neighbouring states.
Symbol of Naga Unity
For many Nagas, Muivah’s visit symbolizes unity across tribal and geographical boundaries. His leadership in the Naga peace process and his long-standing advocacy for reconciliation continue to inspire new generations.
Community elders have described the declaration of Genna as a “renewal of the Naga spirit” — a call to preserve cultural integrity while honouring the leaders who have shaped their history.
Observers note that this Genna could also serve as a subtle political message of solidarity at a time when discussions around the Naga peace accord are once again gaining national attention.
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As preparations for the October 29 reception intensify, villages across Senapati, Ukhrul, Chandel, and Tamenglong are reportedly planning community feasts, prayers, and traditional performances to celebrate the occasion.
A Moment of Reflection
The declaration of a Genna by the United Naga Council is not merely a public holiday—it is a reaffirmation of cultural pride, political continuity, and collective identity. For the Nagas of Manipur, October 29 will be remembered as more than a day of festivity; it will mark the homecoming of a leader whose life has been intertwined with their struggle for recognition, unity, and peace.
