Our Bureau
London
In a historic moment for Indian cinema, the Manipuri film Boong has won the Best Children’s and Family Film award at the BAFTA Awards 2026. Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, this touching story from Manipur beat tough global rivals at the event in London’s Royal Festival Hall.
The film follows young Boong, played by Gugun Kipgen, on a brave quest to find his missing father and make his mother happy. With friends like Bala Hijam as his mom and Angom Sanamatum as his buddy Raju, Boong mixes family love, loss, and hope amid tough times in Manipur. Backed by stars like Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, it premiered at big festivals like Toronto and Mumbai before hitting cinemas in September 2025.
Lakshmipriya Devi’s win speech moved everyone. She thanked BAFTA and prayed for peace in Manipur. “We hope displaced kids, including our child actors, get back their joy and dreams,” she said, calling for forgiveness in conflicts.
Cheers poured in from top names. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it a proud day for Manipur and India on X. Actress Kangana Ranaut praised Devi, her old colleague, for bringing honor to the Northeast. Karan Johar said “Proud,” while Shekhar Kapur hailed the film’s roots and power.
