Boong creates history at BAFTA, Amul celebrates the victory of India’s first regional film

In a big deal for Indian cinema, the Manipuri language film **Boong** won the **Best Children & Family Film** award at the 79th BAFTA Film Awards held in London on February 22, 2026—the first Indian production to receive this honour.

Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s Excel Entertainment (along with Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures), the coming-of-age drama beats out nominees like Disney’s **Zootopia 2**, **Lilo & Stitch**, and **Arco**.

Set in conflict-torn Manipur, **Boong** is the story of a little boy (Gugun Kipgen) who is raised by his single mother (Bala Hijam Ningthoujam). Along with his friend, he sets out on a journey to reunite his estranged family. It depicts innocence, hope, courage and the deep relationship between mother and child. Devi’s acceptance speech (delivered by Paddington Bear) appealed for peace in her home state.

Everyone was proud of this victory, Bollywood stars celebrated on social media. Priyanka Chopra wrote: “Stories like this deserve to be seen, celebrated and remembered. Congratulations to @Ip_devi and the entire team at Boong on this tremendous BAFTA win,” tagging the makers and BAFTA. Vicky Kaushal expressed his “heartfelt congratulations” for the historic success, while Kareena Kapoor Khan described it as “absolutely fantastic”.

Amul added its signature touch with a topical illustration with the caption “Manipuri film Boong wins award at British Film and Television Arts” and a humorous “Boong congratulations!”

This success promotes regional Indian stories across the world, showcases the real stories of Northeast cinema and brings diverse voices to the forefront at international awards.