Anuja's Oscar Nomination
The film Anuja, directed by Adam J Graves, has made history by earning a nomination for Best Live Action Short Film at the 2025 Academy Awards. Out of 180 films that qualified for this prestigious category, Anuja is one of the five films to be nominated. The story centers around a nine-year-old girl named Anuja, who works in a garment factory alongside her older sister, Palak, in a back-alley factory setting. Anuja is faced with a life-changing decision that could impact both her future and that of her family. The nomination is a proud moment for Indian cinema, with backing from Priyanka Chopra, Guneet Monga, and Mindy Kaling, as well as other prominent supporters from the global film industry.

Indian Cinema Representation at the Oscars
This marks a significant achievement for Indian cinema, as Anuja joins the ranks of other films that have garnered recognition at the Oscars. It is also a testament to the work of Guneet Monga, who has earned her third Oscar nomination. Her previous films, The Elephant Whisperers and Period: End of Sentence, won Oscars, making her a key figure in bringing international recognition to Indian filmmakers. The Academy Award nomination is an exciting moment for Indian filmmakers, who continue to make waves in the global film industry. Anuja not only brings light to a significant societal issue of child labor and the resilience of young children but also resonates globally due to its universal themes of survival, family, and sacrifice.

Collaboration and Production Background
Anuja has been produced in collaboration with notable organizations such as the Salaam Baalak Trust, a non-profit that supports street and working children, alongside Shine Global and Krushan Naik Films. The film is backed by a remarkable team, including Priyanka Chopra and Guneet Monga, who have been instrumental in bringing the story to life. It features performances from Ananya Shanbhag, Sajda Pathan, and Nagesh Bhosle. With its powerful narrative and performances, Anuja highlights the untold stories of working children and the challenges they face in their pursuit of a better life. The film’s nomination brings international recognition to these voices, ensuring their stories are heard on a global stage. The film will soon be available for streaming on Netflix.