‘Anuja’ has earned a nomination for Best Short Film (Live Action) at the 97th Academy Awards. Alongside Anuja, other short films making it to the final nominations include ‘A Lien’, ‘The Last Ranger’, ‘I’m Not a Robot’, and ‘The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent’. The Oscars 2025 is scheduled to take place on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood. This nomination marks a significant milestone not only for the filmmakers but also for Indian cinema’s growing presence on the world stage.
‘Anuja’ Gets Best Live Action Short Film Nomination At Oscars 2025
The Indian short film 'Anuja' has earned a nomination for Best Short Film (Live Action) at the 97th Academy Awards. ‘Anuja’, written and directed by Adam J. Graves, is a deeply moving narrative about a nine-year-old girl, ‘Anuja’, who faces a life-altering decision alongside her sister, Palak. As the two girls confront a pivotal opportunity that could change their lives forever, they must navigate complex emotions, family ties, and personal growth. The story mirrors the struggles that young girls face worldwide, touching on themes of gender, family, and resilience.
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At the heart of the film's success is the collaboration of two powerhouse executive producers: Guneet Monga, a celebrated producer known for her work on Oscar-winning ‘Period. End of Sentence.’, and Priyanka Chopra, a global icon whose influence continues to expand across movies, television, and humanitarian work, along with Mindy Kaling who joined as a producer for this short film. All three women have been staunch advocates for diverse and meaningful storytelling, and their partnership on ‘Anuja’ has garnered widespread acclaim.
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‘Anuja’ Plot
The plot of the short film ‘Anuja’ revolves around, “A nine-year-old Anuja, played by Sajda Pathan, who works alongside her sister Palak (Ananya Shanbhag) at a garment factory in Delhi, India. When the bright Anuja is faced with a life-changing choice, the future of her family rests on her shoulders”, according to Netflix.
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‘Anuja’ Cast
The film stars Sajda Pathan as Anuja, Ananya Shanbhag as Palak, and Nagesh Bhonsle, who bring the poignant story to life with compelling performances. Pathan’s portrayal of Anuja has been particularly praised for its depth and vulnerability, capturing the internal conflict of a young girl forced to make an impossible choice. Shanbhag as Palak provides a perfect foil to Anuja’s character, creating a dynamic sisterly bond that adds layers of emotion to the narrative.
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Director Adam J. Graves says, “Anuja is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and untold stories of working children, highlighting their joy and hope amidst challenges. The film captures the innocence and magic of childhood. I’m grateful to our producers and to Netflix for giving this important story a global platform, connecting audiences worldwide to the strength of these remarkable children.”
What sets 'Anuja' apart from other films in the short film category is its universal appeal. While the story is set against a backdrop of Indian culture, its themes resonate with audiences from all walks of life. The film’s exploration of family bonds, the complexities of sisterhood, and the courage to make difficult decisions in life despites of the hardships you are facing.
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Image credit: IMDb
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