Imphal

Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on Monday said director Lakshmipriya Devi’s film Boong, which won the Best Children & Family Film award at the British Academy of Film & Television Awards (BAFTA) 2026, is a moment of immense pride not only for Manipur but for the entire country.

Congratulating the filmmaker, the chief minister said her achievement at the 79th BAFTA Awards showcased her commitment to meaningful and impactful cinema.

“Smt Lakshmipriya Devi’s victory at the 79th BAFTA exemplifies her dedication to storytelling. With Boong winning the top honour in the Best Children & Family Film category, she has brought global recognition to Manipur and India,” Singh said in a Facebook post.

He added that Lakshmipriya Devi has consistently brought laurels to the state through her work, and the latest honour further elevated the stature of Manipuri art and culture on the international stage.

“On behalf of the people of Manipur, I extend my heartfelt appreciation and best wishes for her continued success. May she keep inspiring generations and bringing greater pride and glory to our state,” the CM said.

The quirky Manipuri coming-of-age comedy-drama Boong, produced by Excel Entertainment, won the prestigious award at a ceremony held in London on Sunday. The film was produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani.

In her acceptance speech, Lakshmipriya Devi made an emotional appeal for peace in Manipur. She was presented the trophy by Paddington Bear, the lead character of the West End production Paddington: The Musical.

“The walk up here felt like the last few steps to reach the summit of a mountain we never knew we were climbing,” Devi said.

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She added, “We pray for peace to return to Manipur, and for all internally displaced children, including the child actors in the film, to regain their joy, innocence and dreams. We pray that no conflict is powerful enough to destroy the one superpower we have as human beings — forgiveness.”