When, where to watch 'Anuja' on OTT
What's the story
Oscar-nominated short film Anuja, co-produced by Priyanka Chopra Jonas's Purple Pebble Pictures, Mindy Kaling, and Guneet Monga's Sikhya Entertainment, will make its digital debut on Netflix. The announcement was made through Netflix India's official social media channels on Wednesday evening. The film will premiere on February 5, just weeks ahead of its appearance at the Academy Awards, which are scheduled for March 3 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
Film synopsis
'Anuja' plot and production details revealed
Anuja narrates the tale of a gifted nine-year-old girl who has to make a difficult choice between education or joining her sister in factory work. The decision will change their lives forever. The movie stars Sajda Pathan and Ananya Shanbhag in lead roles, while Monga is an executive producer along with Chopra Jonas. Kaling has also come on board as a producer.
Social impact
'Anuja' is a collaborative effort supporting child welfare
The film is a joint venture with the Salaam Baalak Trust (SBT), Shine Global, and Krushan Naik Films. SBT is a non-profit founded by filmmaker Mira Nair's family to help street and working children. Monga has previously produced the 2023 Academy Award-winning documentary short The Elephant Whisperers and executive produced Period. End of Sentence which won the 2019 Academy Award for documentary short film.
Oscar journey
'Anuja' faces competition and controversy at Oscars 2025
Directed by Adam J Graves and Suchitra Mattai, Anuja is up against A Lien, I'm Not a Robot, The Last Ranger, and The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent in the Best Live Action Short category at the Oscars 2025. However, the film has been mired in controversy with veteran TV director Vinta Nanda slamming the Academy system for letting influential producers like Chopra Jonas and Monga overshadow the actual makers of Anuja.
Twitter Post
Check out the trailer here
ANUJA is a story of resilience, sisterhood, and hope. The Academy Award Nominated Live Action Short Film comes to Netflix February 5. pic.twitter.com/a8JQnQS9T7
— Netflix India (@NetflixIndia) January 29, 2025