Excel Entertainment, Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures’ Boong has become the first Indian film to win a BAFTA, taking home the honour for Best Children’s & Family Film at the prestigious British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards. The Manipuri-language film’s historic victory marks a significant moment not only for the team behind the film but also for regional storytelling from India’s Northeast.
Reacting to the win, producer Ritesh Sidhwani of Excel Entertainment said, “‘Boong’ was made in a language from India’s Northeast – a region rich in culture and storytelling but rarely represented internationally. The fact that it’s being heard and celebrated here reaffirms our belief that stories don’t need scale; they need soul. It’s not just a win for our team, but for the many unheard voices across India.”
Actor-producer Farhan Akhtar of Excel Entertainment also shared his pride and joy over the film’s recognition. “Could not be happier for @lp_devi & the cast and crew of #Boong. Massive congratulations to them for creating a beautiful, heartwarming gem of a film and for this recognition. Feel so proud to be a part of this film and to see it honoured on the BAFTA stage was truly an unforgettable moment. Thank you to the jury. This means a lot to the dreamers and storytellers back home.”
Set in Manipur, the film tells a touching story about family and hope. It follows a young boy named Boong, played by Gugun Kipgen, who dreams of reuniting his family. Raised by his single mother Mandakini, portrayed by Bala Hijam Ningthoujam, Boong sets out on a journey with his best friend to find his missing father. The film beautifully captures innocence, emotions, and the strong bond between a mother and her child.
With this historic win, Boong has not only etched its name in BAFTA history but has also amplified the voice of regional Indian cinema on the global stage.
Google Honours Boong With Special Confetti Feature
Over the years, Google has introduced interactive search features to commemorate major moments in sports, entertainment, and culture. These creative additions often turn an ordinary search into a memorable experience and quickly gain attention online.
This time, the celebration highlights Lakshmipriya Devi’s historic win at the BAFTA Awards, recognizing a significant milestone for Indian cinema. The special animation appears automatically when users look up her name, offering a simple way to join in the celebration.
To experience the celebration yourself, search for “Lakshmipriya Devi” and “Ritesh Sidhwani” on Google and open the results page. Look for the small trophy icon at the bottom of the screen and click on it the icon will transform into a flower with a reference to her BAFTA Awards win. Clicking the flower repeatedly releases colourful bouquets that gather on the screen, creating a festive confetti-style animation in honour of her historic achievement.