New Delhi | 23 Feb 2026

India marked a proud moment at the BAFTA Awards 2026 as the Manipuri film Boong created history by winning the Best Children’s and Family Film award. It became the first Indian film to claim this honour in the category. The film is the debut feature of director Lakshmipriya Devi and is backed by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani.

Reacting to the achievement, Narendra Modi congratulated the entire team through a post on X. Praising the makers, he said, “Congratulations to all those associated with this film. This is indeed a moment of immense joy, especially for Manipur. It also highlights the immense creative talent in our nation.” His message added to the nationwide celebration of the film’s success.

The award ceremony took place at London’s Royal Festival Hall, where the film’s producers and director were present to receive the trophy. While accepting the award, Lakshmipriya Devi spoke emotionally about her home state and said, "So, just want to use this opportunity to say that we pray for peace to return to Manipur. We pray that all the internally displaced children, including the child actors in the film, regain their joy, their innocence, and their dreams once again. So, thank you, BAFTA, for giving us not only an award, but this stage to express our hope. Thank you, and have a wonderful evening, everyone."

Set in Manipur, Boong tells a heartfelt story of a young boy searching for his father, driven by hope and love for his family. The film had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival and later travelled to several major festivals across the globe, earning praise for its simplicity, emotion, and powerful storytelling.

PM Narendra Modi Applauds Manipuri Film Boong After Historic BAFTA Win

India marked a proud moment at the BAFTA Awards 2026 as the Manipuri film Boong created history by winning the Best Children’s and Family Film award. It became the first Indian film to claim this honour in the category. The film is the debut feature of director Lakshmipriya Devi and is backed by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani.

Reacting to the achievement, Narendra Modi congratulated the entire team through a post on X. Praising the makers, he said, “Congratulations to all those associated with this film. This is indeed a moment of immense joy, especially for Manipur. It also highlights the immense creative talent in our nation.” His message added to the nationwide celebration of the film’s success.

The award ceremony took place at London’s Royal Festival Hall, where the film’s producers and director were present to receive the trophy. While accepting the award, Lakshmipriya Devi spoke emotionally about her home state and said, "So, just want to use this opportunity to say that we pray for peace to return to Manipur. We pray that all the internally displaced children, including the child actors in the film, regain their joy, their innocence, and their dreams once again. So, thank you, BAFTA, for giving us not only an award, but this stage to express our hope. Thank you, and have a wonderful evening, everyone."

Set in Manipur, Boong tells a heartfelt story of a young boy searching for his father, driven by hope and love for his family. The film had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival and later travelled to several major festivals across the globe, earning praise for its simplicity, emotion, and powerful storytelling.