Farhan Akhtar’s Manipuri Film ‘Boong’ Selected as Spotlight Film at Melbourne IFF 2025

Farhan Akhtar’s Manipuri Film ‘Boong’: Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s Excel Entertainment continues its legacy of bringing in new talent and engaging (Manipuri film Boong spotlight IFFM) storytelling with their latest production, Boong, which has been officially selected as the Spotlight Film of Melbourne Indian Film Festival (IFFM) 2025. The much-anticipated drama film will premiere in the Victorian state of Australia this August. (Farhan Akhtar Boong festival)

Boong Marks' Directorial Debut of Laxmipriya Devi

Boong marks the directorial debut of Laxmipriya Devi, a seasoned film (Lakshmipriya Devi directorial debut Boong) industry veteran who has previously worked as an assistant director on acclaimed projects such as Luck By Chance, Talaash, Aamir Khan’s PK, and Mira Nair’s internationally acclaimed series 'A Suitable Boy.'

Renowned for spotlighting culturally rich and groundbreaking Indian cinema, IFFM’s 2025 films celebrate diversity, originality, (Boong film family reunion story) and bold storytelling. The selection of Boong as the (Boong Manipuri emotional child journey) Spotlight film not only introduces an exciting new voice in Indian filmmaking but also reaffirms Excel Entertainment’s commitment to nurturing unique stories and visionary creators.

Speaking on the selection, Festival Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange said,

“We are thrilled to present the world premiere of Boong as this year’s Spotlight film. It is a story that is as intimate as it is bold, (Boong TIFF premiere film) and Laxmipriya Devi’s debut film is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary talent working behind the scenes in Indian cinema. IFFM has always been committed to championing new voices, and Boong is exactly that kind of story that resonates globally – deeply rooted in its context, yet universally human in its emotions.”

Directed with sensitivity and vision, Boong reflects Laxmipriya Devi’s years of experience behind the camera and her distinctive voice as a storyteller. It's premiere at IFFM 2025 marks a significant milestone for a (Manipuri cinema global recognition Boong) filmmaker whose journey has come a full circle – from assisting on iconic films to directing her own film.

The Melbourne Indian Film Festival will be held between August 14 and 24 in 2025, bringing together cinematic (Excel Entertainment Boong Manipuri film) talents from across the globe and providing a premier platform for Indian films to connect with international audiences.

FAQs

1. What is Boong about?
   Boong follows a mischievous young boy from Manipur on a heartfelt journey to reunite his family, delivering his absentee father as a surprise for his mother. It is a tender tale rooted in childhood innocence and emotional discovery.

2. Who directed Boong and what is her background?
   The film marks the directorial debut of Lakshmipriya Devi, who previously worked as first assistant director on projects like Luck by Chance, Talaash, and PK.

3. Who produced Boong and under which banner?
   Boong is produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani's Excel Entertainment, along with Vikesh Bhutani, Alan McAlex, and Shujaat Saudagar—supporting storytelling from emerging voices.

4. Where did Boong have its world premiere before IFFM?
   The film premiered in the Discovery section at TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival) in September 2024—a first for a Manipuri fiction film. It also screened at festivals like MAMI, Adelaide, San Diego, and more.

5. Who are the lead actors in Boong?
   The lead roles are played by young actor Gugun Kipgen as Boong and Bala Hijam as his mother. Their performances anchor the film's emotional core.

6. Why was Boong selected as the Spotlight Film at IFFM 2025?
   It was chosen as the Spotlight Film for the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025, underscoring its powerful storytelling and the meaningful debut of its director.

7. When and where did Boong have its IFFM screening?
   The film had its Victorian state premiere in Melbourne during IFFM, held from August 14–24, 2025.

8. What did the festival director say about Boong’s selection?
   IFFM director Mitu Bhowmick Lange said, "It’s a story that is as bold as it is intimate... a powerful reminder of the extraordinary talent working behind the scenes in Indian cinema."

9. Did Boong earn any special accolades at IFFM 2025?
   Yes. At the IFFM Awards night, Gugun Kipgen received the Best Actor (Male) – Special Mention for his performance.

10. How has the film and its screening been received internationally?
    Boong is being praised for its deep cultural resonance and universal emotion. Reviews highlight the director’s intimate storytelling, the film's capturing of Manipuri life, and its sensitive portrayal of innocence amidst socio-cultural tension.

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