The short film Anuja failed to bag an Oscar for Best Live Action Short Film at the 2025 Academy Awards as it lost to I’m Not a Robot. Anuja – backed by and – was nominated along with A Lien, I’m Not a Robot, The Last Ranger, and The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent.

Directed by Adam J. Graves, Anuja revolved around tells the life of a young girl named Anuja. Played by Sajda Pathan, Anuja works in a Delhi-based garment factory with her sister Palak, which is essayed by Ananya Shanbhag. When faced with multiple difficulties, Anuja decides to shoulder the responsibility of supporting her family financially.

The film was jointly supported by Suchitra Mattai, Mindy Kaling, Guneet Monga Kapoor, Krushan Naik, Aaron Kopp, Devananda Graves, Michael Graves, Ksheetij Saini, and Alexandra Blaney.

Out of the 180 films that managed to qualify for the Best Live Action Short Film category, only five films could make it to the race to grab the award. On X, Priyanka had spoken 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 mentioned.
“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.
This was Guneet’s third nomination at the Oscars. Her earlier projects, The Elephant Whisperers and Period: End of Sentence, won Oscars, and brought pride to Indian cinema.

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