Oscars 2025: 'Anuja' Backed by Priyanka Chopra and Guneet Monga Earns Nomination in THIS Category

The 97th Academy Awards nominations, announced on Thursday by Bowen Yang and Rachel Sennott, have spotlighted Anuja, a heartfelt short film, in the race for Best Live Action Short Film. Among 180 qualified films, Anuja stands tall alongside Alien, I’m Not a Robot, The Last Ranger, and A Man Who Would Not Remain Silent.

This marks Guneet Monga's third Oscar nomination. Her previous projects, The Elephant Whisperers and Period: End of Sentence, both clinched Oscars, bringing unparalleled pride to Indian cinema.

About Anuja

Directed by Adam J Graves, Anuja tells the poignant story of a nine-year-old girl who works in a back-alley garment factory alongside her older sister, Palak. The narrative follows the titular character as she makes a life-altering decision that could redefine her family’s future. Adam J Graves described the film as "a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and untold stories of working children."

The film has a strong Indian connection, with Priyanka Chopra, Mindy Kaling, and Academy Award winner Guneet Monga among its key backers. Produced by Adam's wife, Suchitra Mattai, Anuja also collaborates with Salaam Baalak Trust (SBT), a non-profit organization supporting street and working children, and Shine Global, known for Oscar-winning films War/Dance and Inocente. The film stars Ananya Shanbhag, Sajda Pathan, and Nagesh Bhosle.

Oscars Ceremony

The 97th Oscars will be hosted by Conan O’Brien, making his debut as the event's host. The ceremony will take place at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on March 2, 2025.

With Anuja, Indian cinema once again finds itself celebrated on a global stage, marking another proud moment for its storytellers and collaborators.