A Glimpse into 'Boong'

Filmmaker Lakshmipriya Devi, known for her touching and BAFTA-nominated film 'Boong', brings a refreshing perspective to the often misunderstood state of Manipur. While many view this beautiful northeastern region through the lens of conflict, her film offers a humanizing portrayal of its people and culture.

Recognition at the BAFTA Awards

As 'Boong' secures a nomination for Best Children’s and Family Film at the 2026 BAFTA Awards, Lakshmipriya reflects on the surreal nature of this achievement. She describes the nomination as a pinnacle moment for the film, which debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival last year and has since garnered numerous accolades at various film festivals.

Themes of Family and Identity

Despite being categorized under Family and Children, Lakshmipriya finds joy in the film's exploration of significant themes, particularly the poignant story of a boy on a quest to find his father. “At its core,” she notes, “it’s a film for children.”

Discovering Talent

The film features the talented child actor Gugun Kipgen, whom Lakshmipriya discovered in a rather unexpected manner. She humorously recalls her relentless search for a child actor, which ended when Gugun, a Kuki boy, was introduced to her. Initially hesitant due to his unfamiliarity with the Meitei language, he quickly adapted.

The Joy of Directing Young Actors

Lakshmipriya expresses her delight in working with child actors, praising their natural performances. She also commends actress Bala Hijam for her portrayal of Mandakini, the mother in 'Boong', noting that had she strictly adhered to the director's brief, the character might not have resonated as intended.

Personal Reflections in 'Boong'

'Boong' holds a special place in Lakshmipriya's heart, reflecting elements of her own childhood. She identifies with the character of Juliana, flipping the narrative of 'insider-outsider' and addressing themes of discrimination based on her own experiences in New Delhi. She emphasizes the importance of having a Marwari character as Boong's best friend to highlight these issues.

A Message of Hope

Ultimately, Lakshmipriya conveys that the film's message transcends prejudice, focusing on the significance of closure and moving forward for both her community and beyond. She acknowledges the power of cinema to foster understanding, especially in challenging times.

A Journey to Directing

Having spent years as an assistant director on notable projects, Lakshmipriya explains her decision to wait until she had a compelling story to share before stepping into the director's role. When asked about her future projects, she states that the story will dictate the language of her next film. She hopes that 'Boong' will shine a light on the need for recognition of regional cinema beyond the mainstream narratives.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of the BAFTA outcome, Lakshmipriya approaches her work with a sense of fulfillment, pouring her experiences into 'Boong' without the burden of expectations. As audiences eagerly await the results, it’s clear that 'Boong' has already captured many hearts.