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With a historic win, India shone at the BAFTA awards this Sunday! With a massive win for a Manipuri film backed by Farhan Akhtar, and Alia Bhatt presenting an award in Hindi, India was at the centre stage with BAFTA.
Boong bags a BAFTA
What an exciting time for Indian cinema, particularly in the Northeast! At the 79th British Academy Film Awards, the Manipuri-language film Boong brought honour to the nation by winning the prize for Best Children's & Family Film. In one of the most prestigious venues in cinema, the picture—backed by Farhan Akhtar—defeated formidable international competitors. Suitable Pictures, Excel Entertainment, and Chalkboard Entertainment produced Boong, which narrowly defeated Zootropolis 2 and Arco in its category. At a ceremony held at London's Royal Festival Hall, the accolade was acknowledged by producer Alan McAlex, director Lakshmipriya Devi, and actors Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar.
The film depicts a poignant tale that takes place in Manipur during tense social and political times. Boong means 'little boy' in Manipuri. Gugun Kipgen's character, Boong, thinks that the best way to show his mother, Mandakini, how much he cares is to bring back his father, who has grown distant from the family. Bala Hijam plays a key role in this. The little kid sets out on a quest to find his father, with the help of his best friend Raju (Angom Sanamatum), and travels to the border town of Moreh, even crossing into Myanmar.
Boong "does revolve around a young lad who intends to shock his mother with a unique present," said the producers. The most significant gift, in his opinion, would be to return his absent father home. He finds a surprise at the end of his world-shattering quest for his father.
Farhan Akhtar discussed the project's financial backing by mentioning his long history with the filmmaker and the story's powerful emotional impact. “Lakshmipriya Devi and I have known each other for approximately 20 years," he told ANI. “The film takes place in an area of India that isn't often featured in Bollywood films. It was wonderful to provide my support to it, and the narrative is truly touching. As a result, it seemed natural.”
Alia Bhatt stuns at the BAFTA red carpet
With her hair flowing and a beautiful dress, Alia Bhatt is prepared to rule the world. On Sunday, the Indian star attended her first British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) ceremony at London's Royal Festival Hall. The Best Film Not in the English Language trophy was presented by her. In her debut, the 32-year-old actress walked the red carpet like the legendary Marilyn Monroe. Alia arrived at the awards show looking absolutely stunning with a white stole and a custom-designed silver Gucci gown by Demna. Alia looked absolutely stunning at the BAFTAs, thanks to her stylist Rebecca Corbin-Murray, a Hollywood celebrity who has also styled Priyanka Chopra. A custom-made, dazzling sequined gown by Gucci adorned her as she made her grand entrance onto the red carpet. Let's figure out her dazzling BAFTA red carpet attire.
The gown's delicate femininity is enhanced by its sculpted halter silhouette and its liquid silver sheen, which is made up of hundreds of silver sequin embellishments. This Demna floor-length gown has a sleeveless, halter-neck style, sensuous backless detail, waist-defining cutouts on the sides, a form-flattering fit, and a billowing skirt.
Alia Bhatt presents BAFTA in Hindi
The glamorous silver-gown-wearing actress who turned heads on the red carpet came up to the huge stage to host the evening's festivities. The crowd and watchers were taken aback when Alia, who presented the prize for Best Film Not in the English Language, partially spoke in Hindi before switching to English, shocking everyone.
Alan Cumming gave a stellar introduction before Alia stepped onto the stage, where she commenced with a "Namaste." "Agla award ek aise film ke liye hain, jo angrezi me nahi hai." She started off by expressing her sincere feelings about appreciating world storytelling. Her next remark was a playful jab, "Don't reach for the subtitles just yet," which she used to introduce the next Hindi award category.
What an incredible night for India on an international awards stage!