Zaheer Darbar – Editor Entertainment
Priyanka Chopra, Mindy Kaling, and Guneet Monga Celebrate ‘Anuja’ Oscar Nomination. Hollywood stars Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Mindy Kaling, and Guneet Monga are celebrating a significant milestone as their short film, Anuja, has been nominated for Best Live Action Short Film at the 2025 Academy Awards. Directed by Adam J. Graves and Suchitra Mattai, the film tells the poignant story of a young girl in New Delhi who must choose between pursuing education or working in a factory alongside her sister.
The film, which stars Sajda Pathan and Ananya Shanbhag, has garnered widespread acclaim for its heartfelt narrative and powerful performances. Anuja will compete against other short films like A Lien, I’m Not a Robot, The Last Ranger, and The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent at the Oscars. The nominations, announced on Thursday by comedians Bowen Yang and Rachel Sennott, were delayed twice earlier this month due to wildfires in Los Angeles.
A Story of Resilience and Hope
Guneet Monga, an executive producer on the film, expressed her pride in the project, calling it “an ode to the unbreakable bond between two sisters who dared to dream beyond their circumstances.” She added, “Ultimately, it is a celebration of all the beautiful children who face dire circumstances every day around the world. Even through unimaginable odds, they show us there is reason to smile.”
Mindy Kaling, another executive producer, echoed Monga’s sentiments, describing Anuja as a story of “resilience, sisterhood, and hope.” She said, “We’re incredibly honoured to be nominated for Best Live Action Short Film at the Academy Awards 2025. It has been such an honour to produce this short film and learn from the artists involved.”
Priyanka Chopra Jonas Shares Her Excitement
Priyanka Chopra Jonas took to Instagram to celebrate the nomination, writing, “Yaaaay! ‘Anuja’ is heading to the 2025 Oscars as a nominee for Best Live Action Short Film! Incredible!” She also acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the film, stating, “It’s an honour for @purplepebblepictures and I to be a small part of this film’s journey alongside our amazing partners @suchitramattaistudio, @mindykaling, @guneetmonga, and @shine.global.”
A Collaborative Effort with a Noble Mission
Anuja was produced in collaboration with Salaam Baalak Trust, Shine Global, and Krushan Naik Films. The Salaam Baalak Trust, founded by filmmaker Mira Nair’s family, is dedicated to supporting street and working children. Monga, who previously produced the 2023 Oscar-winning documentary The Elephant Whisperers, continues to champion stories that highlight resilience and hope.
The Road to the Oscars
The 2025 Academy Awards ceremony will take place on March 2 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. As Anuja prepares to compete on the global stage, the film’s creators and supporters are hopeful that its powerful message will resonate with audiences and critics alike.
With its compelling narrative and stellar team, Anuja stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of giving a voice to those who often go unheard. As the world eagerly awaits the Oscars, this nomination is a celebration of art, collaboration, and the enduring spirit of hope.
