Ahead of the theatrical release of the Manipuri film Boong which became the first Indian film to win the prestigious BAFTA award. Director Lakshmipriya Devi who credited Excel Entertainment, one of the three productions who backed the film, for its support without which the film wouldn’t be screened on the big screen.
The film which won the prestigious award and became renowned globally is set to release in cinemas on March 6, 2026. At a recent press conference attended by the director, she said, “Boong would have never released, if Excel hadn’t been there.”
The director acknowledged the unwavering support that the project received from Excel Entertainment- a banner founded by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar.
Written and directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, the film first premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, kickstarting an impressive festival journey that included screenings at the Warsaw International Film Festival, São Paulo International Film Festival, Adelaide Film Festival and Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, among others. Each stop strengthened its reputation as a tender, emotionally resonant narrative rooted in authenticity.
Boong is a Manipuri story about a young boy (played by Gugun Kipgen) whose desires to reunite his broken family. Boong is raised by his single mother Mandakini (Bala Hijam Ningthoujam), and he goes on a poignant quest with his best friend to find his missing father. It touches on significantly important issues of hope, resilience and the bonds of child and mother.
Backed by Excel Entertainment in collaboration with Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures, the film is all set to arrive in cinemas tomorrow, March 6, 2026.