"A story of resilience, sisterhood, and hope"
Mindy Kaling expressed her delight after Anuja was nominated for an Oscar.
The nominations for the 97th Academy Awards were announced on January 23, 2025.
Anuja was among the five films that made the nominations for Best Live Action Short Film.
Reacting to the nomination, Mindy Kaling – who co-produced the film – shared a long note on Instagram.
She wrote: “AHHHHHHHH #AnujaTheFilm is headed to the Oscars!
View this post on Instagram
“A story of resilience, sisterhood, and hope – we’re incredibly honoured to be nominated for Best Live Action Short Film at the Academy Awards 2025.”
Mindy thanked the film’s director Adam J Graves and his wife Suchitra Mattai.
She also praised child actresses Sajda Pathan and Ananya Shanbhag.
Mindy’s post concluded: “It has been such an honour to produce this short film and learn from the artists involved.”
Guneet Monga and Priyanka Chopra, who also served as Anuja producers, shared their excitement.
Guneet, who won an Oscar for the Netflix documentary short The Elephant Whisperers, said:
“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.
“Ultimately it is a celebration of all the beautiful children who face dire circumstances everyday around the world.
“Even through unimaginable odds, they show us there is reason to smile.
“This nomination is a testament to how a story made with all heart can transcend all borders, sparking meaningful conversations about education, child labour rights, and the dreams of young children everywhere.”
In her Instagram post, Priyanka called the nomination an “honour”, adding:
“Nothing makes me more proud than supporting the courageous storytelling of evocative films like this.”
Anuja will be up against A Lien, The Last Ranger, I’m Not a Robot and The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent in the Best Live Action Short Film category.
Anuja follows the titular nine-year-old, who works in a garment factory in Delhi.
She is given a rare opportunity to go to school. However, she faces a heart-wrenching choice that will impact her and her sister Palak’s future.
The film mirrors the struggles of girls worldwide.
Film fans can see if Anuja triumphs at the Oscars ceremony on March 2, 2025.
Watch the Anuja Trailer
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