Shillong, Jul 19: Meghalaya’s young singing sensation Kitkupar Nongsiej has scripted another glorious chapter in the history of Indian performing arts by qualifying for the grand finale of the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) 2026, being held in Las Vegas, USA.
The achievement makes him the only contestant from India to secure a place in the prestigious final round of the international championship.
Kitkupar earned his place in the final after delivering an outstanding performance during the semifinals held on the night of July 18.
Widely known as the “Olympics of Performing Arts,” WCOPA brings together some of the world’s finest young talents in singing, dancing, music, acting, modelling and variety arts. Contestants from more than 60 countries compete through several rounds before only a select few are chosen to perform in the coveted grand finale, which is scheduled for July 20.
Only the highest-scoring finalists from the various performance categories will feature on the night. During the spectacular closing ceremony, the world’s best performers will compete for the championship titles, with the overall winner being crowned the Grand Champion Performer of the World, one of the highest honours in international performing arts.
Kitkupar, who hails from Kynshi village in Eastern West Khasi Hills, has been making remarkable progress throughout the championship. Representing India as a member of Team India, he impressed the international panel of judges during the preliminary and semifinal rounds with his exceptional vocal ability, stage presence and confident performances.
His journey to the world stage began after winning Ka Sur Kynud Season 3, Meghalaya’s premier singing competition organised by the Don Bosco Media Network (DBMN). He later secured his place at WCOPA by successfully passing the international online auditions conducted for Team India.
Speaking exclusively to dbmnTv after qualifying for the Grand Finale, an emotional Kitkupar expressed profound gratitude to God and to everyone who has supported him throughout his journey.
“I thank Almighty God for His constant guidance and blessings. Qualifying for the Grand Finale of WCOPA is a dream come true and a proud moment not only for me but for Meghalaya and India. I am deeply grateful to my parents, my mentors, the Don Bosco Media Network, my supporters, and everyone who has been praying for me. Your encouragement has given me the strength to keep believing in myself.”
“Reaching the final is a great honour, but the journey is not over,” he said. “I will continue to prepare with even greater dedication, remain focused, and give my very best on the stage. I know I will be competing against some of the finest performers from around the world, but I will perform with confidence, humility and pride, carrying the hopes of my country. I humbly ask everyone to continue praying for me as I strive to make India and Meghalaya proud.”
