Lakshmipriya Devi calls Boong a deeply personal film inspired by her childhood memories of Manipur and her grandfather. The BAFTA-winning coming-of-age drama releases in theatres on March 6, 2026
Still from Boong
Director Lakshmipriya Devi has opened up about the deeply personal inspiration behind her BAFTA-winning Manipuri film Boong. Backed by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment in collaboration with Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures, the coming-of-age drama is set to make its theatrical debut on March 6, 2026.
Lakshmipriya Devi on Boong
Boong recently created history by becoming the first Indian film to win at the British Academy Film Awards. The film took home the award for Best Children’s & Family Film at the 79th BAFTA ceremony, placing the Manipuri-language feature firmly on the global stage.
Set in Manipur, the film tells a heartfelt coming-of-age story that has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning widespread appreciation for its emotional depth and authenticity. With its theatrical release approaching, anticipation continues to grow.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the film, Lakshmipriya Devi shared that setting the story in Manipur was deeply personal. She explained that through Boong, she wanted to recreate the Manipur she remembers from her childhood.
“This is a very personal film for me. The story of Boong was already set in Manipur, so the writing process felt very natural. It was also inspired by my grandfather, and in many ways, Boong was a happy accident. Through it, I wanted to bring back the Manipur of my childhood,” she said.
What is Boong about?
Boong follows the journey of a young boy, played by Gugun Kipgen, who longs to reunite his broken family. Raised by his single mother Mandakini, portrayed by Bala Hijam Ningthoujam, the boy embarks on a poignant quest with his best friend to find his missing father. The film touches on significant themes of hope, resilience and the bond between a child and his mother.
Written and directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, the film had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, marking the beginning of an impressive festival run. It was later screened at the Warsaw International Film Festival, Sao Paulo International Film Festival, Adelaide Film Festival and Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, where it continued to earn praise for its heartfelt storytelling.
Boong arrives in theatres on March 6, 2026.
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