The Manipuri film industry achieved a groundbreaking milestone in March 2026 when Boong, directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, became the first Manipuri-language film to surpass Rs 1 crore at the Indian box office. Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and backed by Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment alongside other producers, Boong is a heartfelt drama centered on a young boy (played by Gugun Kipgen) yearning to reunite his fractured family. The story resonates deeply with themes of hope, family bonds, and resilience.
International Recognition Paves the Way
Boong first captured global attention by winning the Best Children’s & Family Film award at the 2026 BAFTA Awards in London on February 22, 2026. This historic win made it the first Manipuri film to secure a BAFTA, defeating major Hollywood contenders like Zootopia 2, which had grossed over $1.8 billion worldwide.
Theatrical Journey and Box Office Breakthrough
Boong had an initial limited theatrical release in September 2025, earning modest collections (around ₹0.51 crore in the opening week based on early reports). However, post-BAFTA success prompted a re-release on March 6, 2026, with expanded screens across India Fueled by critical praise, word-of-mouth, and cultural pride in Manipur and beyond, the film quickly crossed the Rs 1 crore mark domestically — a first for any Manipuri production. Reports from mid-March 2026 confirmed it had amassed over Rs 2.70 crore in local earnings, positioning it as one of the highest-grossing Manipuri films ever.
Why This Milestone Matters for Manipuri Cinema
Manipuri films have long excelled in storytelling, cultural depth, and festival circuits but rarely achieved wide commercial success due to distribution challenges and smaller market size. Boong’s feat demonstrates how international accolades can drive domestic viability, inspiring more investments, wider releases, and audience turnout for Northeast Indian cinema.
Looking Ahead
Boong not only scripts box office history but also opens doors for Manipuri talent and narratives. As regional Indian cinema continues to gain momentum, this milestone could encourage more ambitious projects and collaborations.
-By Manoj H