In a landmark moment for Indian regional cinema, the Manipuri-language film Boong has won the Best Children’s and Family Film award at the 79th British Academy Film Awards, marking a historic first for both Manipur and Indian cinema in the category.
Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi in her feature debut, Boong triumphed over major international contenders including Zootropolis 2, Lilo & Stitch and Arco, underscoring the growing global recognition of culturally rooted storytelling from India’s Northeast.
The film, set in the border town of Moreh in Manipur, follows young Brojendro “Boong” Singh on a tender yet determined quest to reunite his family. Through the eyes of a child, Boong explores themes of belonging, fractured families, cultural identity and resilience, set against the socio-political complexities of the region. While categorized as a children’s and family film at BAFTA, its emotional depth and layered narrative have resonated with audiences across age groups.
Boong had its world premiere in the Discovery section at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, signaling early international interest in the project. Its festival journey helped position it as a breakout regional title before its wider theatrical release in India in late 2025.
For Manipur — a state that has long struggled with political unrest and limited mainstream representation — the BAFTA victory carries cultural significance beyond cinema. During her acceptance speech in London, Lakshmipriya Devi dedicated the award to her home state and called for peace in the region, bringing international attention to ongoing tensions while celebrating the resilience of its people.
Lakshmipriya Devi accepts the #EEBAFTAs Children’s and Family Film award for Boong 💫 🗻 pic.twitter.com/TFBnBmDVSx
— BAFTA (@BAFTA) February 22, 2026
“This is for Manipur,” she said on stage, invoking hope and solidarity as she accepted the award. Her speech drew applause and was widely shared across social media platforms, further amplifying the film’s message.
Produced under the banner of Excel Entertainment — co-founded by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani — the film also reflects the increasing collaboration between mainstream Indian production houses and regional filmmakers. Akhtar was present at the ceremony, signaling strong industry backing for the project.
The film stars Gugun Kipgen in the titular role, alongside Bala Hijam and a supporting ensemble drawn largely from the region, adding authenticity to its cultural setting. Cinematography by Tanay Satam captures the textured landscapes of Manipur, while music by Akhu Chingangbam and Zubin Balaporia complements the film’s emotional tone.
Boong’s BAFTA win is particularly notable given the competitive field. It defeated globally recognized animated and live-action franchises backed by major studios, demonstrating that intimate, culturally specific narratives can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with high-budget international productions on the world stage.
The Children’s and Family Film category at BAFTA has historically been dominated by Western studio titles. Boong becoming the first Indian film to win the award represents a breakthrough moment for Indian cinema beyond Bollywood. It signals expanding global recognition for stories told in regional Indian languages, particularly those emerging from underrepresented communities.
The victory also aligns with broader industry shifts toward inclusivity and global storytelling. In recent years, international awards bodies have increasingly acknowledged films from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Boong’s win reinforces that trend, positioning Indian regional cinema as a growing force within global film discourse.
For Lakshmipriya Devi, the achievement marks a remarkable ascent from debut filmmaker to international award winner. Inspired in part by folktales shared by her grandmother, the director has often spoken about wanting to portray Manipur not as a conflict headline but as a living, breathing community filled with humor, love and aspiration.
As awards season continues to spotlight global cinema, Boong stands as a reminder that stories rooted in local realities can resonate universally. Its BAFTA triumph is not merely a trophy win but a symbolic bridge — connecting Manipur’s hills and valleys to one of the most prestigious stages in world cinema.
For Indian cinema, particularly from the Northeast, the message is clear: the global spotlight is widening.
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