New Delhi, February 24, 2026 – In a landmark moment for Indian cinema, the Manipuri-language film Boong has scripted history by winning the Best Children’s & Family Film award at the BAFTA Awards 2026. Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi in her feature debut, the heartfelt coming-of-age drama became the first-ever Indian production to claim this prestigious category, surpassing major international contenders like Disney’s Zootopia 2, Lilo & Stitch, and the French film Arco.
Backed by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s Excel Entertainment alongside co-producers Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures, Boong (2024) premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2024 and received widespread acclaim for its tender storytelling and cultural depth.
The film follows nine-year-old Brojendro “Boong” Singh (played by young talent Gugun Kipgen), a mischievous schoolboy living in Imphal, Manipur, with his mother Mandakini (Bala Hijam). When rumors surface that his long-absent father—gone to seek work in the border town of Moreh—may have died, Boong embarks on an adventurous journey with his best friend Raju. Their quest to uncover the truth and reunite their family navigates themes of racial tensions, border challenges, migration, resilience, and the innocence of childhood amid Manipur’s complex socio-political landscape.
Critics have praised Boong for balancing sweetness with seriousness, offering a refreshing narrative from India’s Northeast. Lakshmipriya Devi, accepting the award in London, used her moment to call for peace in Manipur, a region that has faced ethnic conflicts and unrest.
“This win is a proud milestone for regional Indian cinema and stories from underrepresented voices,” Devi said in post-award interviews. “It’s about hope, family, and the universal dreams of children—even in difficult times.”
The film’s journey includes festival screenings at SIFF, MUBI showcases, and international acclaim, with an IMDb rating of 7.4 and positive reviews highlighting its charming yet nuanced portrayal of youth and identity.
Boong stands as a testament to the growing global recognition of Indian regional films, proving that authentic, locally rooted stories can resonate worldwide and compete with Hollywood giants.
As celebrations continue across India, especially in the Northeast, Boong inspires hope for more diverse cinematic voices on the international stage.
