In a proud moment for Indian cinema, ‘Boong’, an Indian Manipuri-language film, clinched the trophy for Best Children’s & Family Film at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts Awards.Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, the 2024 coming-of-age film clinched victory over a strong slate of nominees including Hollywood box office blockbusters like ‘Lilo & Stitch’, ‘Zootopia 2’ and ‘Arco’.The award was handed out by Paddington Bear, who took to the stage to deliver a monologue, saying, “I am the first-ever bear to present an award, and also the first presenter to get marmalade over a BAFTA.”The nominations for the awards show was announced in January. Reacting to the nod, the film’s production house said in a statement, “‘Boong’ is extremely honoured and grateful to be nominated in the BAFTA Children’s & Family category.”‘Boong’ tells the story of a young schoolboy navigating racial tensions and the complex realities of life along the Manipur border. Set against a backdrop of social and political strain, the film follows Boong’s emotional journey as he confronts prejudice and uncertainty, fuelled by his determination to reunite his divided family.
