Farhan Akhtar-backed Boong wins big at BAFTA Awards 2026: Manipuri movie beats Hollywood's top box office hit to make history

In what is being seen as a proud moment for Indian cinema, Farhan Akhtar-backed Boong has won the Best Children’s & Family Film award at the British Academy Film Awards. The Manipuri-language film managed to outshine major international contenders, including Hollywood’s big commercial successes like Zootopia 2 and Lilo & Stitch.

The ceremony took place on February 22, 2026, at the Royal Festival Hall in London and was hosted by Alan Cumming. The award in the Children’s & Family Film category was presented in a special moment on stage by Paddington Bear, who said, “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 three other films in the same category — the French animated feature Arco, Lilo & Stitch, and Zootopia 2. The latter, in particular, has been a massive box office success worldwide. Industry reports note that Zootopia 2 crossed the $1 billion mark and went on to collect over $1.8 billion globally, becoming one of the highest-grossing animated films in history.

Despite the scale and commercial pull of these titles, the jury chose Boong, a rooted and emotionally driven story from Manipur. The win is being viewed as a significant recognition for regional Indian cinema on a global platform.

Reacting earlier to its nomination when the nods were announced in January, the film’s production house had said in a statement, “Boong is extremely honoured and grateful to be nominated in the BAFTA Children’s & Family category.”

Story Rooted in Manipur

Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani under Excel Entertainment along with Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures, Boong tells the story of a young boy growing up amid social and political tensions in Manipur.

The film follows Brojendro, also called Boong, played by Gugun Kipgen. He lives with his single mother Mandakini, portrayed by Bala Hijam, after his father Joykumar disappears without explanation. Believing that bringing his father back would be the greatest gift for his mother, the young boy sets out on a journey with his friend to search for him. Parts of the journey take him towards the border town of Moreh and even across into Myanmar.

Set against racial tension and uncertainty in the region, the film captures childhood innocence while showing the strain conflict can put on families. The title “Boong” itself means “little boy” in Manipuri.

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Festival Journey and Cast

Before its BAFTA win, the film had already drawn attention at global festivals. It premiered at the 2024 edition of the Toronto International Film Festival and was later showcased as a Spotlight Film at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025. Director Lakshmipriya Devi has also been recognised earlier for her work, including winning Best Director at the Bulbul Children’s International Film Festival in Goa.

The cast includes Vikram Kochhar, Angom Sanatombam, Nemetiya Ngangbam, Jenny Khurai, Hamom Sadananda, Thoudam Brajabidhu and Modhubala Thoudam in key roles.

Farhan Akhtar attended the ceremony with Shibani Akhtar, marking the occasion as a special one for the team.