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Anuja, Priyanka Chopra Jonas
The widely celebrated short film Anuja has garnered significant acclaim, earning a nomination for Best Live Action Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards. The short film boasts an impressive team. Directed by Adam J Graves and Suchitra Mattai, Anuja features a talented cast including Nagesh Bhonsle, Sajda Pathan, Gulshan Walia, and Ananya Shanbhag. It is produced by Suchitra Mattai, with additional producers Mindy Kaling, Priyanka Chopra, Shine Global’s Alexandra Blaney, Krushan Naik, and Aaron Kopp, and executive producer Guneet Monga Kapoor.
I’m So Proud: Priyanka Chopra Backed 'Anuja' Nominated For Oscars
Guneet Monga Kapoor expressed her gratitude for the film’s recognition, saying, “Incredibly honoured for this nomination at the 97th Oscars. It is a privilege to share the story of Anuja, representing the work of Salaam Baalak Trust India – the voice of countless youth who bravely face formidable circumstances every day. Director Adam J. Graves and Producer Suchitra Mattai have poured their hearts into this. This nomination is a testament to how we can cross borders, collaborate, and bring honest stories to life, alongside the support of global icons like Mindy Kaling and Priyanka Chopra Jonas."
Priyanka Chopra also shared her excitement, stating, “‘Anuja’ being nominated for an Oscar is such an incredible moment. This film is a beautiful reminder of the power of storytelling—how it can shine a light on love, family, and resilience in the most authentic way. I’m so proud of Adam J. Graves for his vision and deeply moved by the brilliant performances of Sajda Pathan and Ananya Shanbhag."
Anuja is set to stream on Netflix. On January 15 Priyanka took to her Instagram Stories to share her reaction. She reposted an update from Variety and expressed her pride, writing, "Proud of this beautiful film" with a red heart emoji.
‘Anuja' Set For Netflix Release, Priyanka Chopra Proudly Reacts
Priyanka plays the role of executive producer for Anuja. Expressing her admiration for the project, Priyanka Chopra told Variety, "This beautiful film shines a spotlight on a subject that affects millions of children worldwide, who are faced with the impossible decision between a future they cannot yet see and the immediate realities of their present. Anuja is a poignant, thought-provoking piece that makes us reflect deeply on the power of choices and how they shape the course of our lives. I am immensely proud to be associated with such a phenomenal and impactful project."
‘Anuja’ Makes Oscars 2025 Shortlist, What’s The Short Film About?
Set in New Delhi, Anuja tells the moving story of a gifted nine-year-old girl caught in a life-changing dilemma, choosing between her education and working in a factory alongside her sister. This critical decision holds the key to shaping the course of their lives.
Anuja tackles important themes of child labour and girls' education. With 1 in 10 children globally involved in child labour and 129 million girls unable to attend school, the filmmakers aim to use the film as a platform to raise awareness about the widespread nature of these issues.
The short film boasts an impressive team. Directed by Adam J Graves and Suchitra Mattai, Anuja features a talented cast including Nagesh Bhonsle, Sajda Pathan, Gulshan Walia, and Ananya Shanbhag. It is produced by Suchitra Mattai, with additional producers Mindy Kaling, Shine Global’s Alexandra Blaney, Krushan Naik, and Aaron Kopp, and executive producer Guneet Monga Kapoor.
The film was released in June 2024 in the United States under the banners of Graves Films, Krushan Naik Films, and Shine Global.
Other Contenders in the Category
Anuja faced tough competition in the Live Action Short category from other powerful entries, including Clodagh, The Compatriot, Crust, Dovecote, Edge of Space, The Ice Cream Man, I’m Not a Robot, The Last Ranger, A Lien, The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent, The Masterpiece, An Orange from Jaffa, Paris 70, and Room Taken.
Key Oscar Dates
Voting for Oscar nominees across all 23 categories will begin on January 8 and end on January 12. The final nominations will be announced on January 17. The much-awaited 97th Academy Awards ceremony, hosted by Conan O'Brien, is set to take place on March 2, 2025.