There are three films from India that are currently fighting for Oscars. All We Imagine As Light, Santosh and Laapata Ladies. While the producers of the first two films are not entirely Indians, they are still very Desi stories and are actually great at what they are doing.
While the producers of the first two films are not entirely Indians, they are still very Desi stories and are actually great at what they are doing.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas has joined Anuja as an executive producer. The short film recently won the live-action short award at the 2024 HollyShorts Film Festival and secured a spot on the 2025 Oscars shortlist in the live-action short category.
Directed by Adam J. Graves and produced by Suchitra Mattai, Anuja tells the story of a nine-year-old girl who works in a back-alley garment factory with her sister Palak. The story talks about her struggle to make a life-altering decision that will impact her family and future.
The film collaborates with the Salaam Baalak Trust, supporting street children, and Shine Global, which is known for producing Oscar-winning films. Other notable producers include Mindy Kaling and Oscar winner Guneet Monga Kapoor. Mind you Guneet Monga was the producer behind “The Elephant Whisperers” that actually won as Oscar in 2023.
Lead actor Sajda Pathan, herself a survivor of life on Delhi’s streets, brings authenticity to the role. The film premiered at the DeadCenter Film Festival before its win at HollyShorts.
Steps like these are actually very very beneficial for the film as they ensure the buzz. Winning the Oscars has never been solely about marketing but also about campaigning. With a name like Priyanka Chopra, things always get better. All the best to team “Anuja”.