Feb 28, 2026 1:45pm IST
BAFTA Pulls Down ‘Boong’ Director Lakshmipriya Devi’s Winning Speech From Social Media; Internet Reacts
Filmmaker Lakshmipriya Devi created history earlier this month when her Manipuri film “Boong” brought India its very first BAFTA. While the country continues to celebrate the landmark recognition, BAFTA is now facing criticism for removing Devi’s winning speech from its social media handles. The reason for this remains unclear.
On X, climate activist Licypriya Kangujam raised the issue in a post that read, “Hello @BAFTA, Why was Lakshmi Priya’s winning speech for the film Boong quietly removed from your official social media platforms today? This is deeply disappointing. BAFTA must uphold transparency and integrity.” Her post drew widespread attention, with many users reacting and demanding clarity.
Related Stories
Filmmaker Onir also questioned the organization, writing, “Why is @BAFTA silent? Is such a heartfelt, simple but powerful speech so unsettling? Who does it threaten?”
Why is @BAFTA silent. Is such a heartfelt simple but powerful speech so unsettling.... who does it threaten? https://t.co/nGpq1a7R1O
— iamOnir (@IamOnir) February 28, 2026
In her acceptance speech, Lakshmipriya Devi had said, “The walk up till here felt like the last few steps to reach a summit of a mountain we never knew we were climbing in the first place. I just want to use this opportunity to say that we pray for peace to return to Manipur. We pray that all the internally displaced children, including the child actors in the film, regain their joy, their innocence and their dreams once again.”
She further added, “We pray that no conflict is ever formidable enough to destroy the one superpower that all of us have as human beings, that is, forgiveness. So, thank you, BAFTA, for giving us not only an award but also this stage to express our hope.”
Meanwhile, “Boong” will release in India on March 6, 2026.
Comments are moderated. They may be edited for clarity and reprinting in whole or in part in Variety publications.