BAFTA 2026: Farhan Akhtar-backed ‘Boong’ wins best Children’s and Family Film

Indian film Boong wins BAFTA award

• Boong wins Best Children’s and Family Film at 2026 BAFTA Awards
• Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, produced by Akhtar and Sidhwani
• Boong highlights Manipuri cinema's global recognition and success

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India celebrated a moment of cinematic pride at the 2026 BAFTA Awards as the Manipuri-language film Boong won the award for Best Children’s and Family Film.

Directed by debutant Lakshmipriya Devi and produced with the support of actor-producers Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, the film beat stiff competition from international favourites including Disney’s Lilo & Stitch and Zootopia 2, as well as the animated sci-fantasy adventure Arco.

Boong tells the tender coming-of-age story of a young boy named Boong, played by Gugun Kipgen, who dreams of giving his mother, Mandakini (Bala Hijam), the ultimate gift: bringing back his father, Joykumar.

Believing it to be the most meaningful present, Boong sets out on a journey that takes him far from home, teaming up with his loyal friend Raju (Angom Sanamatum) to uncover the truth about his father, who had moved to the border town of Moreh near Myanmar in search of work and had stopped communicating with the family.

Against rumours of Joykumar’s death, Boong’s determination and innocence turn the quest into a story of hope, resilience, and unexpected new beginnings.

The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2024 and went on to feature at several other festivals, including the Warsaw International Film Festival, MAMI Mumbai Film Festival, the 55th International Film Festival of India, and the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne.

This widespread recognition reflects the growing international appreciation for India’s rich regional cinema, moving beyond the familiar realm of Bollywood.

Also Read: BAFTA 2026: Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Dandekar shine on the red carpet, watch here

Lakshmipriya Devi, who previously worked as a first assistant director on projects like Luck By Chance, Talaash, PK, and A Suitable Boy by Mira Nair, has made a remarkable directorial debut with this heartfelt tale.

The film is produced by Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures, bringing together talent that bridges both regional authenticity and universal appeal.