The Manipuri film Boong has made history by winning Best Children’s and Family Film at the 2026 EE BAFTA Film Awards, becoming the first Indian film to claim the honour in the category. Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and backed by Farhan Akhtar, the film’s victory marks a significant milestone for Indian regional cinema on the global stage.
The award was presented during the ceremony by the fictional character Paddington Bear, who joked in his monologue, “I am the first-ever bear to present an award, and also the first presenter to get marmalade over a BAFTA.”
Boong was nominated alongside international titles including Arco, the live-action hybrid Lilo & Stitch, and Zootropolis 2 (also known as Zootopia 2 in some markets). Its win follows a strong festival run that began with its world premiere at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival.
Set in a Manipuri village, the film follows a young boy living with his single mother after the unexplained disappearance of his father, Joykumar. Determined to give his mother “the best gift ever”, the child sets out with a friend to search for his missing father. The emotional quest forms the core of the narrative, which has been widely praised for its sensitivity and cultural specificity.