The Manipuri-language film Boong has won the Best Children’s & Family Film award at the 79th British Academy Film and Television Awards (BAFTA), held at the Royal Festival Hall in London on Sunday, February 22.
Backed by Excel Entertainment, Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures, the film triumphed over international contenders including Zootopia 2, Arco and Lilo & Stitch in its category.
Manipuri-language film Boong won the Best Children’s & Family Film award at the 79th BAFTA Awards in London on February 22. Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and backed by major production houses, the film was recognised for its storytelling and performances after competing against global titles in the category.
Award Presented In London
The award ceremony took place at the Royal Festival Hall in London.
Director Lakshmipriya Devi received the honour alongside producers Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar and Alan McAlex.
The win marks a significant international recognition for a film rooted in the socio-cultural landscape of Manipur.
A Film With Global Festival Presence
Before its BAFTA win, Boong had already built momentum on the international festival circuit.
The film:
- Premiered in the Discovery section at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival
- Screened at the 2024 Warsaw International Film Festival
- Featured at the 2024 MAMI Mumbai Film Festival
- Was shown at the 55th International Film Festival of India
- Screened at the 2025 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne
This sustained global presence helped position the film as a strong contender in international award platforms.
Story Rooted In Manipur’s Landscape
Set in the valley of Manipur, Boong follows the journey of a young schoolboy determined to reunite his family by bringing his father back home.
Through the perspective of a child, the film explores themes of:
- Social and political strain
- Racial tension and prejudice
- Family separation
- Emotional resilience
The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the Manipur border region, reflecting the lived realities of communities in the area.
Performances And Production
The film features performances by Gugun Kipgen, Bala Hijam Ningthoujam and Angom Sanamatum.
Its production involvement from established Indian film studios such as Excel Entertainment has brought regional storytelling to a broader international audience.
What This Means For Northeast Cinema
The BAFTA recognition highlights the growing global footprint of cinema emerging from India’s Northeast.
For audiences in Assam and the broader region, the win underscores the increasing visibility of stories rooted in local cultures and languages on international platforms.
Industry observers note that such recognition may open doors for more collaborative and cross-border projects involving filmmakers from the Northeast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What award did Boong win at BAFTA 2026?
Boong won the Best Children’s & Family Film award at the 79th British Academy Film and Television Awards.
When and where was the award ceremony held?
The ceremony took place on February 22 at the Royal Festival Hall in London.
Who directed Boong?
The film was directed by Lakshmipriya Devi.
What is the film about?
Boong tells the story of a young boy in Manipur who searches for his father, exploring themes of family, social tension and resilience.
