Oscar-shortlisted Anuja to land on Netflix in India - Here's everything we know so far

While we’ve been focused on tracking Laapataa Ladies, All We Imagine As Light, and Santosh in the Oscars race, we might have missed Anuja, a short film that has made it to the shortlist for the Best Live Action Short Film category at the 97th Academy Awards. This powerful film about resilience has received global praise but is yet to reach the Indian audience. Directed by Adam J. Graves and produced by Suchitra Mattai, Anuja tells the inspiring story of two sisters who strive to find joy and opportunities in a world bent on their exploitation and exclusion. Now, it has a streaming home in India.

Anuja Finds a Streaming Home on Netflix

Shortlisted for an Academy Award nomination in the Best Live Action Short Film category, Anuja provides a reflection of the universal struggles faced by young girls around the world. The film is backed by an impressive team of producers: Suchitra Mattai, Mindy Kaling, Guneet Monga Kapoor, Krushan Naik, Aaron Kopp, Devananda Graves, Michael Graves, Ksheetij Saini, and Alexandra Blaney. Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Anita Bhatia serve as executive producers.

Co-executive producers include Archana Jain, Susan MacLaury, and Albie Hecht. The film is rooted in extensive research and filmed in collaboration with several community partners, including Mira Nair's Salaam Baalak Trust, an NGO focused on empowering street and working children. Lead actor Sajda Pathan is a beneficiary of this Trust.

Discussing the creative team, writer and director Adam J. Graves shared: "‘Anuja’ is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and untold stories of working children, showcasing their joy and hope amidst challenges. The film captures the innocence and magic of childhood, brought to life through collaboration with Salaam Baalak Trust and NGOs like the Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation and Save the Children. I’m grateful to our producers and Netflix for giving this important story a global platform, connecting audiences to the strength of these remarkable children."

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On Anuja’s release on Netflix, Guneet Monga Kapoor commented: "‘Anuja’ is a story of unparalleled courage, made with a lot of heart. Director Adam J. Graves conveys a powerful message through an entertaining and empowering lens. I’m honored to be part of this journey alongside producers Mindy Kaling, Suchitra Mattai, and Krushan Naik, and now with Priyanka Chopra Jonas, a strong voice for our story. In anticipation of an Academy Award nomination, I’m thankful to Netflix for embracing Anuja.”

With its engaging narrative, impactful performances, and real-life inspiration, Anuja is set to inspire global audiences. The short film not only showcases the struggles young girls face in their pursuit of education but also amplifies the voices of those who are often overlooked. Anuja is more than a film — it’s a movement that aims to spark change for children everywhere.

Netflix has yet to announce the release date for Anuja. Stay tuned to OTTplay for more updates on this and everything else in the world of streaming and films.

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