BAFTA Takes Down Boong Director's Manipur Speech, Later Re-Uploads On YouTube

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) faced criticism for initially removing Lakshmipriya Devi's impactful acceptance speech after her film 'Boong' won an award. During her address, Devi poignantly highlighted the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur, drawing attention to the struggles faced by the state. Her emotional words resonated strongly with attendees and viewers alike, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and action regarding the situation in Manipur. Following a backlash from the public and supporters, BAFTA reinstated the speech on their official YouTube channel, acknowledging its significance. This incident has sparked discussions about the role of art in addressing social issues and the responsibilities of institutions in amplifying marginalized voices. Devi's speech serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling in advocating for change and the importance of acknowledging the realities faced by communities in conflict. The re-upload illustrates BAFTA's commitment to honoring impactful narratives within the film industry, particularly those that spotlight critical issues affecting society today.