In a significant achievement for Indian cinema, the 2025 Academy Awards have nominated Anuja, a short film backed by Guneet Monga and Priyanka Chopra, for Best Live Action Short Film.The film is one of five nominees in its category, following a competitive selection process from a pool of 180 eligible films.
Anuja tells the poignant story of a nine-year-old girl, the title character, who works in a back-alley garment factory alongside her older sister, Palak. The narrative delves into the emotional journey of the young girl as she faces a life-altering decision that not only impacts her future but also the well-being of her family. Adam J Graves, the director, has described the film as a “heartfelt tribute to the resilience and untold stories of working children.”
This marks a significant milestone for Anuja, as it brings attention to the difficult realities faced by working children, particularly in underprivileged communities.The filmmakers produced the film in collaboration with the Salaam Baalak Trust (SBT), a non-profit organization that supports street and working children. It also had the backing of Shine Global, known for its Academy Award-winning films War/Dance (2007) and Inocente (2012), as well as Krushan Naik Films.
Adam J Graves and his wife Suchitra Mattai produced the film, with Priyanka Chopra, Mindy Kaling, and Guneet Monga providing notable backing. Monga, who has won two Oscars for The Elephant Whisperers and Period: End of Sentence, continues to shine.
Her involvement in Anuja is expected to bring additional acclaim to the film, as she plays a key role in elevating Indian cinema’s visibility on the global stage.
Starring Ananya Shanbhag, Sajda Pathan, and Nagesh Bhosle, Anuja portrays a moving, realistic account of childhood in the context of labor and survival. Netflix will stream the film, although the release date has not yet been announced.
As the Oscar season unfolds, the 97th Academy Awards ceremony will take place on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Conan O’Brien will host the event, marking his debut as the ceremony’s host. The inclusion of Anuja in the Oscars race further exemplifies the growing recognition of diverse global voices in cinema, particularly in short film categories.
The nomination is a proud moment for Indian cinema, as it highlights both the artistic merit of Anuja and the ongoing importance of raising awareness about the struggles of working children worldwide. The film’s success also underscores the increasing role of Indian and South Asian talent in international film industries, with high-profile figures like Priyanka Chopra and Guneet Monga leading the charge.
The Academy’s recognition has poised Anuja to draw more attention to its powerful story and contribute to meaningful conversations about child labor and the experiences of vulnerable children worldwide.
