Indian cinema etched a new chapter in global awards history with ‘Bung’, the Manipuri gem that scooped Best Children and Family Film at BAFTA 2026 – a category first for India. The February 23 triumph has leaders and fans alike beaming with pride.
On X, PM Modi wrote, “Heartiest congratulations to the ‘Bung’ team. This joyous milestone means so much to Manipur and highlights India’s vast creative prowess.”
Mamata Banerjee posted, “‘Bung’ creates history at BAFTA 2026, winning Best Children and Family Film as the pioneering Indian entry despite hurdles. Congratulations to all – you’ve filled the nation with pride!”
Directed by Laxmipriya Devi and backed by Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment, ‘Bung’ led India’s BAFTA charge this year. The emotional stage moment saw Laxmipriya, with Farhan by her side, honor BAFTA and Indian cinema’s unyielding spirit.
Story-wise, ‘Bung’ captures a border school’s boy’s life amid Manipur’s chaos of conflict, prejudice, and abandonment. It tenderly explores his fight to restore family unity and paternal return, masterfully mixing laughs with profound emotion.
Internationally, it dazzled post its TIFF 2024 premiere, Warsaw 2024 fest, Goa’s 55th IFFI, and Melbourne IFF 2025, collecting universal praise.
This accolade spotlights underrepresented narratives, affirming regional films’ power to resonate worldwide and boosting India’s soft power through cinema.