Boong: The first Indian movie to win a BAFTA

In 2026, the Manipuri language film Boong created history by becoming the first Indian film ever to win a BAFTA. Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, the film won the Best Children’s & Family Film award at the BAFTA Awards, bringing global attention to regional Indian cinema and the stories of Northeast India. (bookmyshow)

What is Boong ABout? Boong is a coming of age story set in Manipur that follows a young boy named Boong who wants to reunite his family. Believing that bringing back his missing father would make his mother happy, he sets out on an emotional journey with his best friend. The story mixes childhood innocence with the complex social realities of the region. (book my show)

A Historic BAFTA Win: At the 2026 BAFTA Awards, Boong won Best Children’s & Family Film, making history as the first Indian film to win a BAFTA in any category. The film competed against major international titles including Lilo & Stitch and Zootropolis 2, making the victory even more remarkable. (BAFTA official website)

Global Festival Journey: Before its BAFTA win, Boong had already impressed international audiences. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2024 and was later screened at several global festivals including the Warsaw International Film Festival, earning critical acclaim. (destination toronto)

A Story from Manipur: The film is deeply rooted in the culture and social realities of Manipur. Through the journey of a child, it reflects themes of family, conflict, resilience, and hope, offering global audiences a glimpse into life in the region. (wikimedia commons)

A Breakthrough for Northeast Indian Cinema: The success of Boong is significant because films from Northeast India rarely receive global attention. Backed by Excel Entertainment and producers including Farhan Akhtar, the film brought international recognition to Manipuri cinema. (wikimedia commons)