BAFTA Awards 2026: India’s ‘Boong’ Creates History With First Win In Children’s Film Category
BAFTA Awards 2026: India’s ‘Boong’ Creates History With First Win In Children’s Film Category
Manipuri-language film becomes first Indian winner in Best Children’s and Family Film at BAFTAs
Indian cinema achieved a historic milestone at the BAFTA Awards 2026 as Boong won the Best Children’s and Family Film award, becoming the first Indian film to secure a victory in this category.
The Manipuri-language debut feature was the sole Indian nominee this year and went on to clinch the prestigious honour. The announcement was made by the official BAFTA platform during the ceremony.
Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and backed by producers Farhan Akhtar, Ritesh Sidhwani, Vikesh Bhutani, Alan McAlex and Shujaat Saudagar, the film stars Gugun Kipgen and Bala Hijam Ningthoujam in key roles. Farhan Akhtar was present at the ceremony to receive the award on behalf of the team.
Boong competed against international titles including Arco, Lilo & Stitch and Zootopia 2 in the category.
The film premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival in the Discovery section and later screened at major global festivals such as the Warsaw International Film Festival 2024, MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024, the 55th International Film Festival of India, and the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025.
Set in Manipur, the story follows a young schoolboy named Boong who plans to surprise his mother with a special gift. Believing that reuniting his father with the family would be the greatest present, he sets out on a journey that leads to unexpected emotional discoveries and a new beginning. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of social and regional tensions, highlighting themes of resilience, forgiveness and hope.
The film was produced by Excel Entertainment, Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures. Its regional focus and emotionally grounded storytelling were widely praised during its festival run.
Boong’s victory was seen as a landmark moment for Indian cinema, especially for regional filmmaking. The win placed it among globally recognised contenders and marked a significant step in expanding the international footprint of Indian children’s and family cinema.
