SHILLONG, Jan 5: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among leaders who mourned the death.
“Mr Neil Nongkynrih was an outstanding mentor to the Shillong Chamber Choir, which enthralled audiences globally. I have also witnessed some of their superb performances. He left us too soon. His creativity will always be remembered. Condolences to his family and admirers. RIP,” the Prime Minister tweeted.
Governor Satya Pal Malik said he was deeply saddened by the news of the death of the son of Meghalaya.
“May his soul rest in peace! I convey my deepest condolences to his family and friends,” he said.
Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma tweeted, “I am saddened beyond words by the sudden demise of Padma Shri Neil Nongkynrih…He was a mentor to the country’s finest choir that serenaded crowds wherever they performed. We have lost a gem today.”
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra wrote on Twitter: “Extremely saddened by the demise of Neil Nongkynrih…He dedicated his life in the pursuit of music. Above all, Neil made an invaluable contribution in showcasing the immense talent of Meghalaya & the Northeast to the entire nation and world.”
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also mourned the death. He tweeted: “…Under his leadership, the Choir rose to great heights winning fame not only for Meghalaya but entire Northeast. May his soul rest in peace!”
Nagaland CM, Neiphiu Rio wrote: “I am saddened and shocked to learn about the sudden demise of Neil Nongkynrih, founder and mentor of the renowned Shillong Chamber Choir which excels in multi-genre music. The country & the NE region in particular have lost a musician par excellence. Condolences to his loved ones.”
All India Trinamool Congress-Meghalaya president, Charles Pyngrope said the untimely demise of Nongkynrih has come as a shock to everyone. He had managed to create his own brand name globally through his acclaimed music, Pyngrope said.
“I want to extend my condolences to his family, members of the SCC and all his loved ones. May his soul rest in peace,” Pyngrope said.
The AITC-Meghalaya in a statement said, “His music had the power to bring joy in the darkest times. His contribution in the field of music is unparalleled. He lives on with the Shillong Chamber Choir.”
State Congress leader, Ampareen Lyngdoh said, “I have known him for many years. He was an innovative thinker, brilliant with his music and an exceptionally talented individual. I miss him dearly and offer condolences to his family and team and pray that God grant him eternal rest and peace in his heavenly place of rest,” Lyngdoh said.
PHE Minister, Renikton L Tongkhar said it is a shock for people, especially those who closely followed Nongkynrih’s music.
“It is a great loss for the Shillong Chamber Choir. We still have huge expectations from it. I want to send my condolences to his family members and loved ones,” Tongkhar said.
Central Puja Committee general secretary, JL Das said he is saddened to hear the news. He prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul.
Noted environmentalist, Naba Bhattacharjee also expressed shock. He said Nongkynrih was an unparalleled genius in the global world of music.