In a proud moment for Indian cinema, the Manipuri-language film Boong has won the Best Children’s & Family Film award at the British Academy Film Awards 2026, held at Royal Festival Hall. The honour was presented by the beloved Paddington Bear, adding a special touch to the evening.
Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and backed by Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment alongside Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures, the film follows a young boy navigating displacement and identity in Manipur. Through quiet resilience and emotional honesty, Boong captures childhood innocence against the backdrop of complex realities.
This win marks a significant milestone for Manipuri storytelling, placing its emotionally resonant narratives firmly on the global stage and spotlighting the depth and diversity of regional Indian cinema.