The 2026 edition of the New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF) concluded with Manipuri film Boong emerging as one of the biggest winners of the event. The coming-of-age drama picked up three awards, continuing its successful run on the international festival circuit.
Held from May 28 to May 31, the festival showcased films from across India in multiple languages, highlighting the growing prominence of regional cinema. Organised by the Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC), the event featured narrative features, documentaries and short films, along with several world premieres.
Three major wins for Boong
Boong won the Best Debut Film award, which was selected by the Film Critics Circle of India. Director Lakshmipriya Devi received the Best Director award, while young actor Gugun Kipgen was honoured with the Best Child Actor award for his performance in the film.
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The latest recognition adds to the film's growing list of achievements. Earlier this year, Boong made history by becoming the first Indian film to win the BAFTA award for Best Children's and Family Film, bringing international attention to Manipuri cinema and stories from Northeast India.
A story rooted in Manipur
Written and directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, Boong is a Manipuri-language coming-of-age drama that follows a young boy's journey to reunite his family. The film stars Gugun Kipgen in the lead role alongside actors including Bala Hijam and Vikram Kochhar.
The film first premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and later gained international acclaim for its portrayal of childhood, family relationships and life in Manipur.
Baksho Bondi wins top honour
While Boong dominated multiple categories, the festival's highest honour, Best Film, went to Baksho Bondi, also known as Shadowbox. The award recognised the film as the standout feature among the festival's competitive lineup.
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This year's NYIFF featured films in 15 languages and reinforced the growing influence of regional storytelling within Indian cinema. Festival organisers noted that the selection reflected the diversity of voices emerging from different parts of the country.
Landmark moment for Manipuri cinema
The success of Boong at both the BAFTAs and NYIFF marks a significant moment for Manipuri cinema. The film's achievements have brought greater visibility to filmmakers from Northeast India and demonstrated the global appeal of stories rooted in local cultures and experiences.
With three awards in New York and a historic BAFTA victory already to its name, Boong continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the most celebrated Indian films on the international festival circuit this year.
