Entertainment: Melbourne is all set to welcome a piece of Manipur’s cinematic magic as the Farhan Akhtar-backed film, Boong, takes centre stage as the Spotlight Film at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025. This much-anticipated selection will see the film have its Victorian state premiere later this month, bringing its poignant story to Australian audiences.
Produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s renowned Excel Entertainment, Boong is a powerful directorial debut for Lakshmipriya Devi. Devi, who honed her skills as a first assistant director on critically acclaimed films like Luck by Chance, Talaash, and the blockbuster PK, now presents a story that is as heartfelt as it is visually stunning.
Set against the lush, picturesque backdrop of Manipur Valley, the film follows the journey of a young boy named Boong, played with remarkable innocence by Gugun Kipgen. Boong’s quest begins with a simple, pure desire: to reunite his family. He plans a surprise for his mother, portrayed by Bala Hijam, hoping for the return of his long-absent father.
However, as he embarks on this earnest mission, Boong stumbles upon a series of life-changing revelations that challenge his young heart and perception of the world. The film has been on a winning streak globally, captivating audiences and critics alike.
It secured the Best Feature Film award at the International South Asian Film Festival in Canada, was named Best Youthful Film at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards in Australia, and won the Audience Choice Award for Best Narrative Feature at The Indie Meme Film Festival in the US.
Lakshmipriya Devi’s direction has garnered individual accolades as well, including the Best Director award at the Bulbul Children’s International Film Festival in Goa. She has been widely praised by critics for her exceptional talent in weaving emotionally resonant tales that transcend cultural barriers. Her work on Boong solidifies her standing as a bright new voice in Indian cinema, a filmmaker capable of touching hearts across the globe with stories rooted in local landscapes but universal in their emotional appeal. The IFFM selection is yet another feather in the cap for this celebrated film and its promising director.
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