BAFTA 2026 Highlights: Boong Creates History, Alia Bhatt’s ‘Namaskar’ Win Hearts
The 79th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA 2026) delivered a spectacular blend of cinematic excellence, emotional tributes, and historic wins for global and Indian cinema alike. Held on 22 February 2026 at the iconic Royal Festival Hall in London, the ceremony hosted by actor-presenter Alan Cumming, celebrated the top films of 2025 while spotlighting powerful speeches, significant cinematic milestones, and heartfelt memories of legends we lost.
This year’s BAFTA night was marked by sweeping victories from iconic filmmakers, historic firsts for Indian cinema, and touching moments that will be remembered long after the trophies are packed away.
The night belonged to Paul Thomas Anderson’s ambitious drama One Battle After Another, which emerged as the dominant force of the evening, securing six major BAFTAs including:
- Best Film
- Best Director (Paul Thomas Anderson)
- Best Adapted Screenplay
- Best Supporting Actor (Sean Penn)
- Best Cinematography
- Best Editing
This impressive haul underscored its critical and industry acclaim, setting the tone for a night celebrating bold storytelling and filmmaking innovation.
Ryan Coogler’s ‘Sinners’ also made history by winning three BAFTAs, including Best Original Screenplay, Best Original Score, and Best Supporting Actress for ‘Wunmi Mosaku’, making Coogler the first Black filmmaker to win in the Original Screenplay category at BAFTA.
Robert Aramayo delivered a memorable upset by winning Best Leading Actor for ‘I Swear’, triumphing over big names and earning the public-voted EE Rising Star Award as well.
In the leading actress category, Jessie Buckley was crowned Best Leading Actress for ‘Hamnet’, marking a milestone as the first Irish performer to win this prestigious title.
Other Notable Winners
- Outstanding British Film: Hamnet
- Best Animated Film: Zootropolis 2 (Zootopia 2)
- Best Documentary: Mr. Nobody Against Putin
- Best Film Not in English Language: Sentimental Value
- Outstanding Debut: My Father’s Shadow
- Best Sound: F1
- Special Visual Effects: Avatar: Fire and Ash
Each win showcased not only standout craftsmanship but also the diversity of international cinema this awards season.
Historic Indian Cinema Victory: Boong Wins BAFTA
In a giant leap for Indian films, the Farhan Akhtar produced Manipuri drama ‘Boong’ clinched the Best Children’s & Family Film BAFTA, making it one of the most talked-about moments of the night.
Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, Boong delivers a tender coming-of-age story about a young boy’s heartfelt journey to reunite with his absent father, a narrative steeped in hope, resilience, and emotional depth.
On stage in London, the award was received with immense pride by the team, including producer Farhan Akhtar, marking a proud moment in Indian regional cinema’s rise on the global awards stage.
Alia Bhatt Shines: Powerful Speech & Global Presence
Bollywood star Alia Bhatt turned heads with her BAFTA debut as an award presenter, delivering a delightful, heartfelt speech that seamlessly blended Hindi and English.
Greeting the audience with “Namaskar”, she introduced the Best Film Not in the English Language category and shared a beautiful message about the universality of cinema, emphasizing how films connect us beyond linguistic borders.
Alia also reflected on life, love, and inspiration, mentioning her daughter Raha as her “true source of magic”, a personal moment that struck a chord with fans worldwide.
On the red carpet, she dazzled in a shimmering custom Gucci gown, joined by Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Dandekar, signaling a stylish and spirited Indian presence at the global event.
Remembering Dharmendra: A Global Tribute to a Legend
Arguably the most poignant moment of BAFTA 2026 came during the In Memoriam segment, where the ceremony paid tribute to cinematic legends who passed away in the last year, including Indian film icon Dharmendra.
Accompanied by Jessie Ware’s emotional performance of “The Way We Were”, the tribute honoured Dharmendra’s monumental legacy in Indian and world cinema, alongside other greats like Diane Keaton, Rob Reiner, and Gene Hackman.
Dharmendra’s influence as one of Bollywood’s most beloved stars, remembered for his versatility, charisma, and unforgettable screen presence, was celebrated across social media and film communities, moving audiences worldwide.
Other Memorable Moments from BAFTA 2026
Beyond the top winners and tributes, several highlights made the night unforgettable:
- Prince William presented the prestigious BAFTA Fellowship to Dame Donna Langley, honouring her extraordinary contribution to film and industry leadership.
- Musical performances added emotional depth and glamour to the ceremony.
- Unexpected outcomes, like Robert Aramayo’s Best Actor win, showcased BAFTA’s embrace of breakthrough talent.
- One Battle After Another’s sweep positioned it as a front-runner ahead of other major awards, including the Oscars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which film won Best Film at BAFTA 2026?
One Battle After Another won Best Film.
2. Which Indian film won a BAFTA for the first time?
Boong won Best Children’s & Family Film.
3. Which award has Zootopia 2 won?
Best Animated Film
4. Did any technical awards stand out in BAFTA awards 2026?
Avatar: Fire and Ash won for Special Visual Effects.
5. What was one of the most emotional moments of the BAFTA 2026 night?
The In Memoriam tribute honoring Dharmendra and other global legends stood out as the most heartfelt segment.
6. What made BAFTA 2026 significant for Indian cinema?
Boong’s win and Alia Bhatt’s global stage presence highlighted India’s growing influence in international cinema.
Wrap Up: The Charismatic Night of BAFTA 2026
BAFTA 2026 was not just another awards ceremony, it was a powerful celebration of storytelling, diversity, and global cinematic excellence. From Paul Thomas Anderson’s sweeping triumph to Ryan Coogler’s historic milestone, from Boong’s groundbreaking win for India to Alia Bhatt’s heartfelt moment on the world stage, the evening reflected how cinema continues to break boundaries and unite cultures.
Emotional tributes, surprise victories, and technical brilliance combined to make this edition of the British Academy Film Awards truly unforgettable. As the industry now turns its attention toward the Oscars, one thing is certain: BAFTA 2026 has already set the tone for a thrilling and fiercely competitive awards season ahead.
