BAFTA-Winning Boong is heading back to Indian theatres on March 6, and this time, it carries global recognition with it. According to official announcements, the Manipuri-language film has scripted history by becoming the first Indian film to win in its category at the BAFTA Film Awards. Following its monumental victory, actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar confirmed the nationwide re-release, inviting audiences to witness the journey on the big screen once again.
Directed by debutant Lakshmipriya Devi, the film clinched the Best Children’s & Family Film honour at the 79th BAFTA ceremony held at Royal Festival Hall on February 22.
BAFTA-Winning Boong Makes History
The moment BAFTA-Winning Boong was announced as the winner in the Best Children’s & Family Film category, it marked a watershed for Indian cinema.
At the 79th edition of the BAFTAs, the film competed alongside international titles including Arco, Lilo & Stitch, and Zootropolis 2. Notably, it was the only Indian film nominated in the category.
This victory is not just symbolic — it places Manipuri cinema on the global map and expands the representation of regional Indian stories in international awards circuits.
Why BAFTA-Winning Boong Is Re-Releasing In India
Following its historic achievement, Farhan Akhtar shared the re-release announcement on social media, writing:
“A journey of innocence, love and resilience. Witness India’s first BAFTA Award-winning film, in cinemas on 6th March.”
Produced by Excel Entertainment — founded by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani — along with Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures, the film originally released in select cities on September 19 last year through PVR INOX.
The re-release on March 6 aims to bring the globally celebrated story to a wider Indian audience, especially those who missed its limited theatrical run.
The Emotional Story Behind Boong
At its heart, BAFTA-Winning Boong tells a deeply personal and socially rooted story.
The narrative follows a young boy living in a Manipuri village with his single mother. They struggle with the unexplained disappearance of his father, Joykumar, who once worked outside the town but vanished without a trace.
Is he dead? Did he abandon his family? The uncertainty becomes the emotional anchor of the film.
Determined to give his mother what he calls “the best gift ever,” Boong embarks on a journey with his best friend to search for his missing father. Their path leads them to the border town of Moreh and even across into Myanmar.
Set against the socio-political tensions of Manipur, the story weaves innocence with harsh realities. The title “Boong” translates to “little boy” in Manipuri — a detail that reinforces the film’s emotional lens.
Cast Performances That Elevated BAFTA-Winning Boong
The film’s authenticity is powered by its performances.
Gugun Kipgen plays the titular role with striking vulnerability, capturing the innocence and determination of a child confronting adult uncertainties.
Bala Hijam portrays Mandakini, the resilient mother grappling with loss and hope. Her performance anchors the emotional intensity of the narrative.
Angom Sanamatum appears as Boong’s loyal friend Raju, adding warmth and companionship to the journey.
Together, the cast delivers a grounded portrayal that resonated strongly with international juries.
Production Backing and Industry Support
The support from Excel Entertainment played a significant role in amplifying the film’s reach.
Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s production house has consistently backed content-driven cinema, and BAFTA-Winning Boong aligns with their commitment to meaningful storytelling.
The strategic theatrical release via PVR INOX and subsequent re-release announcement reflects a calculated effort to ensure that the film’s global recognition translates into domestic viewership.
What This BAFTA Win Means For Indian Regional Cinema
The success of BAFTA-Winning Boong goes beyond one film.
It highlights the growing global appetite for authentic regional narratives from India. Manipuri cinema, often underrepresented in mainstream distribution, now has a milestone moment to build upon.
Winning in a competitive international category at the BAFTAs validates the universal appeal of locally rooted stories. It also signals that children’s and family cinema from India can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with global productions.
Jay-Ho Updates
BAFTA-Winning Boong returning to theatres on March 6 is more than a celebratory re-release. It is an opportunity for Indian audiences to experience a film that has already earned international acclaim.
With its heartfelt narrative, strong performances, and historic BAFTA triumph, the film stands as a testament to the power of regional storytelling.
