Farhan Akhtar's ‘Boong’ Triumphs at BAFTA: A Heartfelt Tribute to Manipur
Synopsis
Farhan Akhtar's backing elevates 'Boong', a Manipuri film, to win the Best Children's & Family Film at BAFTA. Director Lakshmipriya Devi honors her homeland, Manipur, and expresses hopes for peace and joy for its displaced children.
Key Takeaways
Boong wins Best Children's & Family Film at BAFTA.
Director Lakshmipriya Devi highlights the film's roots in Manipur .
Calls for peace and joy for displaced children in the region.
Competed against international films like Lilo & Stitch .
Premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival .
Mumbai, February 23 (NationPress) The Manipuri-language film “Boong”, supported by Farhan Akhtar, has clinched the esteemed Best Children's & Family Film accolade at the 79th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA). Its director, Lakshmipriya Devi, expressed her gratitude, referring to the achievement as “the final few steps towards a summit of a mountain we never knew we were ascending in the first instance.”
“Boong” found itself in the competitive company of global titles including Arco, Lilo & Stitch, and Zootropolis 2.
The official BAFTA Instagram account shared a video clip of Lakshmipriya Devi receiving the award, where she commenced with “Kurumjari,” a traditional greeting.
She further remarked: “The journey to this point felt akin to reaching the final few steps to a mountaintop we never realized we were scaling from the outset. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the jury members and BAFTA for showering our modest film with such immense affection.”
Emphasizing the film’s connection to her homeland, Manipur, a region she characterized as troubled, overlooked, and underrepresented in India, Devi stated: “This film is firmly anchored in a place that faces significant challenges, is largely ignored, and lacks representation in India—my homeland, Manipur. It serves as a tribute to my homeland. I seize this opportunity to pray for peace to prevail in Manipur.”
She also conveyed her hope that the internally displaced children, including the young actors in the film, would rediscover their joy, innocence, and aspirations.
“We pray for the internally displaced children, particularly the young actors featured in the film, to reclaim their happiness, innocence, and dreams. We hope that no conflict proves powerful enough to obliterate the one true superpower,” she concluded.
Boong features Gugun Kipgen, Bala Hijam, Angom Sanamatum, Vikram Kochhar, Nemetia Ngangbam, Jenny Khurai, and Hamom Sadananda. The film made its world premiere in the Discovery section at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival on September 5, 2024.
The narrative revolves around a young boy’s poignant quest to reunite his family against the backdrop of social tensions in Manipur.
Point of View
It's evident that 'Boong' is not just a film but a significant cultural statement. Its recognition at BAFTA highlights the importance of diverse storytelling in Indian cinema, particularly from regions like Manipur that are often overlooked. This achievement is a reminder of the power of film to spark conversations about peace and representation.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Boong' about?
'Boong' tells the poignant story of a young boy's quest to reunite his family amidst social tensions in Manipur.
Who directed 'Boong'?
The film was directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, who expressed deep gratitude for the recognition it has received.
What award did 'Boong' win?
'Boong' won the Best Children's & Family Film award at the 79th BAFTA.
What is the significance of Manipur in 'Boong'?
Manipur serves as the film's backdrop and is portrayed as a region facing many challenges, making it a tribute to the director's homeland.
When did 'Boong' premiere?
'Boong' premiered at the Discovery section of the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival on September 5, 2024.
