BAFTA 2026: Farhan Akhtar-backed Manipuri movie Boong nominated for Best Children’s and family film

BAFTA 2026: Farhan Akhtar-backed Manipuri movie Boong nominated for Best Children’s and family film

• Boong earns BAFTA 2026 nomination for Best Children’s and Family Film
• Manipuri film directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, backed by Excel Entertainment
• Boong premiered at TIFF 2024 and stars Gugun Kipgen and Bala Hijam

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Manipuri-language film Boong, backed by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s Excel Entertainment, has earned a prestigious nomination at the BAFTA Film Awards 2026. The tender coming-of-age drama has been shortlisted in the Best Children’s and Family Film category, marking a significant moment for regional Indian cinema on a global stage.

The nominations were announced by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) on January 27. Boong finds itself in distinguished company, competing against international studio-backed titles such as Arco, Lilo & Stitch, and Zootropolis 2. The nomination underlines the growing recognition of culturally rooted, emotionally driven stories from India at major international awards.

Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, Boong marks her debut feature film. The project is co-produced by Excel Entertainment, Chalkboard Entertainment, and Suitable Pictures. The film released in Indian theatres in September 2024 and quickly drew attention for its gentle storytelling and authentic portrayal of life in Manipur.

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Set in the valley of Manipur, Boong follows the journey of a young boy who wants to surprise his mother with what he believes would be the most meaningful gift of all, bringing his estranged father back home. Driven by innocence and quiet determination, the boy sets out in search of his father. What begins as a simple, heartfelt mission gradually turns into a journey of emotional discovery, leading him to an unexpected gift: a new beginning. The film stars Gugun Kipgen and Bala Hijam in lead roles, both of whom have been praised for their understated performances.

Boong has enjoyed a strong festival run even before its BAFTA recognition. The film had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2024, where it received a warm response from international audiences. It was later named the Spotlight Film at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, further cementing its place among notable Indian independent films of the year.

Director Lakshmipriya Devi has a long-standing association with Excel Entertainment. She previously worked as a first assistant director on films such as Luck by Chance and Talaash, and also assisted on major projects including Rajkumar Hirani’s PK and Mira Nair’s A Suitable Boy series. Boong represents a significant step forward in her filmmaking journey.

The BAFTA Film Awards 2026 ceremony will take place on February 22 at London’s Royal Festival Hall, with actor Alan Cumming set to host the event. For Boong and its makers, the nomination itself stands as a milestone, spotlighting a deeply personal Manipuri story on one of cinema’s most respected global platforms.