BAFTA 2026: Manipuri film ‘Boong’ wins Best Children and Family Film, marks major moment for India
PTC Web Desk: The Manipuri-language debut film Boong won the Best Children and Family Film prize at the 79th British Academy Film Awards, marking a significant milestone for India. With Boong being the only Indian candidate at this year's BAFTAs, the win represented a major milestone for Indian cinema on the international front.
The film's success was widely celebrated. It is directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and produced by Farhan Akhtar. Thinking back on his choice to support the initiative, Farhan Akhtar discussed his long association with the director and highlighted about their common interests and mutual trust. Above all, he stated that the story itself, which was genuine and emotionally impactful, was what initially persuaded him the movie was "right."
Gugun Kipgen, Bala Hijam Ningthoujam, and Angom Sanamatum all give strong performances in key parts of the movie. Boong defeated big international competitors including Zootopia 2, Lilo & Stitch, and the French sci-fi film Arco to win a competitive category.
Boong primarily narrates the moving tale of a young schoolboy negotiating border difficulties and racial tensions in Manipur. He sets out on a quest to bring his split family back together, driven by tenacity and resolve, providing a story that is both personal and profoundly relevant.
After making its debut in the Toronto International Film Festival's Discovery section, the movie made appearances at a number of esteemed international film festivals, such as the Warsaw International Film Festival, the Mumbai Film Festival, the International Film Festival of India, and the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne.
Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt made her BAFTA debut by presenting the Best Film Not in the English Language award, enhancing India's attendance at the ceremony and underscoring the nation's expanding worldwide cinematic prominence.
- With inputs from agencies
