Shillong, July 26: Hundreds gathered at Khyndailad in Shillong on Saturday to honour Kitkupar Nongsiej on his return home after making it to the grand finale of the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCPOA) 2026 in Las Vegas, USA.
The Meghalaya’s internationally acclaimed vocalist was also welcomed at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati, by his family members and supporters from his native Kynshi village in West Khasi Hills district.
Nongsiej reached the grand finale of WCPOA, also known as ‘Olympic of Performing Arts’, after crossing several hurdles, making the state especially the music lovers proud.
The public reception jointly organised by the state government and Don Bosco Media Network Television (DBMN TV) marked the state’s recognition of his achievement in bringing global attention to Meghalaya and India.
On reaching Mawlai ISBT, he was accorded an official reception and escorted to the programme venue at Khyndailad.
Young singer Chevinia Lyngdoh Mawnai, winner of Sur Kynud Season 1 and an international vocal titleholder, and Shellevah N Jyrwa, winner of Sur Kynud Season 4, performed at the cultural function among others.
“His dedication and talent have brought immense pride to the state. We also thank DBMN TV and Fr Makri for creating platforms that nurture young artists, and Kitkupar’s parents and the people of Kynshi for their support,” said Paia War Nongbri, Director of Sports and Youth Affairs.
In his address, Kitkupar thanked Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, his family, and well-wishers for the financial and moral support that made his US trip possible.
Reflecting on his journey from local contests to the world stage, he credited Sur Kynud Season 3 and DBMN TV for giving him exposure and guidance.
“My journey to global recognition started there. The opportunity and training I received turned my dream into reality,” he said. DBMN TV Managing Director Fr Michael Makri, in his address, reaffirmed DBMN TV’s commitment to promoting young artists and announced that Shellevah N Jyrwa has registered for the auditions of Britain’s Got Talent. If selected, she will travel to the UK in October 2026.
