Shillong, July 25 : Hundreds of people gathered at Khyndai Lad in Shillong on Saturday to welcome Meghalaya vocalist Kitkupar Nongsiej following his successful participation in the World Championships of Performing Arts 2026 held in Las Vegas, United States.
The public reception was jointly organised by the Government of Meghalaya through the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs and Don Bosco Media Network Television to honour Kitkupar for bringing international recognition to Meghalaya and India.
Earlier in the day, Kitkupar was welcomed at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati by his family members, supporters from his native village of Kynshi and representatives of Don Bosco Media Network Television.
Upon his arrival at Mawlai ISBT, the State Government accorded him an official reception and provided an escort to Khyndai Lad, where admirers, media personnel and well-wishers had gathered to celebrate his achievement.
The felicitation programme began with a welcome address by Don Bosco Media Network Television Managing Director Fr. Michael Makri. He welcomed Acting Director of Sports and Youth Affairs Paia War Nongbri, Kitkupar’s parents, supporters from Kynshi and other guests.
Singer Chevinia Lyngdoh Mawnai, winner of Sur Kynud Season 1, performed her original Khasi song, Kum u Khlur, dedicating it to Kitkupar and his journey to the international stage.
Addressing the gathering, Nongbri congratulated Kitkupar on behalf of the State Government and described him as a role model for Meghalaya’s youth. He said Kitkupar’s talent, dedication and perseverance had brought pride to the state. Nongbri also appreciated Don Bosco Media Network Television for creating platforms to identify and promote young artists. He acknowledged the support provided by Kitkupar’s parents, family members and the people of Kynshi throughout his journey.
The programme also featured a performance by Shellevah N. Jyrwa, winner of Sur Kynud Season 4, who presented the song Sha Ki Khlur.
Speaking at the programme, Kitkupar expressed gratitude to the Government of Meghalaya and Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma for the financial and moral support that enabled him to represent India at the international competition. He also thanked the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, his parents, family, friends, supporters and well-wishers for their encouragement and prayers.
Reflecting on his journey, Kitkupar said his rise to the international stage began after he won Sur Kynud Season 3, which gave him exposure, opportunities and continued guidance from Don Bosco Media Network Television.
Fr. Makri, while proposing the vote of thanks, reaffirmed the network’s commitment to discovering and promoting young artists from the Northeast. He also announced that Shellevah N. Jyrwa has registered to audition for Britain’s Got Talent. Subject to clearing the auditions, she is expected to travel to the United Kingdom in October 2026.
Kitkupar’s journey from Kynshi to the international stage was hailed as an inspiration for young artists and an example of how talent, determination and community support can help transform dreams into achievement.
