‘We pray for peace in Manipur’: Boong director Lakshmipriya Devi after film’s historic BAFTA triumph

Boong became the first Indian and first Manipuri film ever to win in this category, marking a major milestone for regional Indian cinema at the international level.

The film, produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, secured the award against a strong lineup of international nominees, including Zootopia 2, Lilo & Stitch, and Arco.

Accepting the award, Lakshmipriya Devi described the film as deeply personal.

“It’s a homage to my homeland,” she said, referring to Manipur as a place “which is very troubled, very much ignored and very underrepresented in India.”

“I just want to use this opportunity to say that we pray for peace to return to Manipur. We pray that all the internally displaced children, including the child actors in the film, regain their joy, their innocence and their dreams once again,” she added.

About Boong

The word “Boong” means “little boy” in Manipuri, reflecting the film’s central focus on childhood and innocence.

The film follows the emotional journey of a young boy named Boong, who lives with his single mother in Manipur after his father mysteriously disappears while working near the India-Myanmar border.

Refusing to accept his father’s disappearance, Boong sets out on a journey with his best friend to find him. He travels to the border town of Moreh and even crosses into Myanmar in the hope of reuniting his family.

The story explores themes of childhood hope, family bonds, identity, and resilience amid political and social tensions.

Gugun Kipgen, a Kuki tribal actor, plays the titular role, while Bala Hijam and Angom Sanamatum appear in supporting roles as Boong’s mother and friend, respectively.

The film also subtly addresses complex issues affecting Manipur and Northeast India, including ethnic conflict, identity struggles, insurgency, political tensions, social discrimination, and the preservation of childhood innocence amid conflict.