As the 97th Academy Awards draw near, Anuja has become a leading contender in the Live-Action Short category. Directed by Adam J Graves, Anuja is the only Indian film this year which has been nominated in the prestigious award this year. It stars Sajda Pathan, Ananya Shanbhag, and Nagesh Bhonsle, the short premiered in August 2024 at the HollyShorts Film Festival.

Anuja has been backed by Priyanka Chopra’s production house, Purple Pebble Pictures, alongside Guneet Monga Kapoor and Mindy Kaling.

On X, Priyanka spoke about the indelible impact Anuja can put on the viewers. “I know you’ll be just as moved by Anuja as I was… I am and beyond thrilled to share that it’s coming to Netflix on Feb 5!”

“The film has been nominated for an Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film,” the post further read.

“Watching Sajda and Ananya bring this powerful tale to life is an experience. Their performances are raw, honest, and utterly captivating. Anuja is more than just a film – it’s a testament to the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood, the resilience of the human spirit, and the hope that carries us through even the darkest times. Don’t miss it!” she added.

The short films nominated with short films are A Lien, I’m Not a Robot, The Last Ranger and The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent.

In an interaction with The Hollywood Reporter, Mindy spoke about the Oscar nomination. She said, “Even though, tonally, this is so different than other projects I’ve worked on. I just felt like there is a spiritual link between me and these kinds of female coming-of-age stories that Anuja is.”

Meanwhile, Oscars 2025 will be held on March 2, 2025. It will be hosted by Conan O’Brien and will be held at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood.

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