IMPHAL, Feb 23: Y. Khemchand Singh on Monday said filmmaker Lakshmipriya Devi’s film Boong, which won the Best Children’s & Family Film award at the 79th British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards 2026, is a moment of immense pride not only for Manipur but for the entire nation.
Congratulating Devi on her remarkable achievement, the Chief Minister said her victory exemplifies a deep commitment to impactful filmmaking. In a post on Meta, he noted that Boong claiming the top honour in the Best Children & Family Film category has brought accolades to Manipur and India.
Singh said Devi has consistently brought laurels to the state through her outstanding contributions to cinema, and that the latest international recognition further elevates the stature of Manipuri art and culture on the global stage. On behalf of the people of Manipur, he extended heartfelt appreciation and best wishes for her continued success.
The quirky Manipuri coming-of-age comedy-drama Boong, produced by Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment, received the prestigious BAFTA trophy in London on Sunday. Devi accepted the award from Paddington Bear, the beloved character from Paddington The Musical.
She was joined on stage by producers Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, along with assistant director Rahul Sharda.
In her emotional acceptance speech, Devi described the journey as “the last few steps to reach a summit of a mountain we never knew we were climbing in the first place.” She also made a heartfelt appeal for peace in Manipur, praying that internally displaced children, including the child actors in the film, regain their joy and dreams.
“We pray that no conflict is ever formidable enough to destroy the one superpower that all of us have as human beings — forgiveness,” she said, thanking BAFTA for providing not just an award but a platform to express hope.
