In a historic moment for Indian cinema, the Manipuri film ‘Bung’ clinched the Best Children and Family Film award at the prestigious BAFTA Awards 2026. This marks the first time an Indian production has won in this category, filling the nation with pride on February 23.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to express his joy, posting, “Congratulations to everyone associated with this film. This is truly a moment of great joy, especially for Manipur. It showcases the tremendous creative talent present in our country.”
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee echoed the sentiment, writing on X, “Thrilled that the Manipuri film ‘Bung’ has made history at the 2026 BAFTA Awards. Despite all challenges, it won Best Children and Family Film – the first Indian production to do so. Hearty congratulations to the entire cast and crew. You’ve made the whole country proud.”
Produced under Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment banner and directed by Laxmipriya Devi, ‘Bung’ is the first Indian film nominated for BAFTA this year and now a winner. At the ceremony, director Laxmipriya Devi, visibly emotional, accepted the award alongside Farhan Akhtar, thanking BAFTA and saluting the strength of Indian cinema.
The film’s narrative revolves around a schoolboy living near Manipur’s border, grappling with violence, ethnic tensions, and neglect since birth. Set against the state’s social and political turmoil, it sensitively portrays his struggle to reunite his fractured family and bring back his long-lost father. A blend of comedy and drama adds emotional depth.
Before BAFTA, ‘Bung’ shone at international festivals. It premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival’s Discovery section, followed by screenings at Warsaw International Film Festival 2024, the 55th International Film Festival of India in Goa, and the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025, earning rave reviews everywhere.
This victory not only highlights regional cinema’s global appeal but also underscores India’s diverse storytelling talent, promising more such triumphs ahead.