Shillong, July 25: Police Bazaar turned into a sea of pride on Saturday as Shillong accorded a grand public reception to Kitkupar Nongsiej, Meghalaya’s newly crowned champion at the World Championships of Performing Arts 2026 in Las Vegas.
Organized by the Government of Meghalaya through the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs and Don Bosco Media Network Television, the felicitation at Khyndai Lad drew hundreds of admirers, media and well-wishers.
Kitkupar’s homecoming began at Guwahati airport, where family and supporters from his native village Kynshi received him. An official escort by the state government brought him to Mawlai ISBT and then to Police Bazaar.
Fr. Michael Makri, Managing Director of DBMN TV, welcomed Chief Guest Shri Paia War Nongbri, Acting Director of the Directorate, along with guests and Kitkupar’s parents.
The cultural programme featured performances by Sur Kynud winners. Chevinia Lyngdoh Mawnai sang her original Khasi track “Kum u Khlur” dedicated to Kitkupar, while Shellevah N. Jyrwa performed “Sha Ki Khlur”.
Paia War Nongbri hailed Kitkupar as a role model for Meghalaya’s youth and credited his success to perseverance and community support. He also acknowledged DBMN TV and Fr. Makri for nurturing talent across the region.
In an emotional address, Kitkupar thanked Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and the state government for enabling his US trip. He said his journey began after winning Sur Kynud Season 3, which gave him the platform and mentorship to reach the global stage.
Fr. Makri, in his vote of thanks, announced that Shellevah N. Jyrwa has registered for Britain’s Got Talent and could travel to the UK in October 2026, marking DBMN TV’s next push to take Northeast talent international.
Officials said Kitkupar’s win at WCOPA 2026 highlights the emerging artistic strength of Meghalaya and offers inspiration to young performers across the Northeast.
