The coming-of-age drama Boong, directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, has become the first Manipuri film to earn over ₹1 crore at the Indian box office. The film, released in India on March 6, 2026, has been backed by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani under the Excel Entertainment banner.
Boong also won the Best Children’s and Family Film award at the 2026 BAFTA ceremony, held at the Royal Festival Hall in London on February 22. The film was previously released in select Indian theatres in September 2025.
The story follows a young boy, Gugun Kipgen, from Manipur, who embarks on a heartfelt journey to surprise his mother. In his innocence, he believes bringing his father back home will be the perfect gift. Along the way, he discovers an unexpected, life-changing surprise — a story of hope, family, and new beginnings.
Boong had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2024 and has been screened at numerous international and Indian festivals, including:
- Warsaw International Film Festival 2024
- MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024
- 55th International Film Festival of India
- Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025
This feature marks Lakshmipriya Devi’s directorial debut, after working as a first assistant director on projects like Luck by Chance, Talaash, PK, and Mira Nair’s A Suitable Boy.
With its box office milestone and international recognition, Boong is set to inspire a new era for regional Indian cinema, proving that Manipuri films can make a global impact.
