Kiran Rao's Laapataa Ladies, which served as India's official submission for the Best International Feature Film category, unfortunately, did not secure a place on the Oscars 2025 shortlist. However, the prospects for Indian cinema remain promising, as Guneet Monga Kapoor's film Anuja has successfully reached the shortlist. The team is filled with joy upon receiving this news.

They view this acknowledgement as a validation of the power and significance of their poignant narrative. Anuja has been shortlisted in the Best Live-Action Short Film category for the forthcoming Oscars 2025 award ceremony.

Anuja team reacts

Producer Guneet expressed her joy at the inclusion of a story about two sisters from India in the Oscar race.

"Being nominated for the Oscars is a source of great pride. Anuja tells a deeply personal tale of two sisters as they navigate life's challenges, embodying the enduring hope and resilience of the human spirit. It has been a privilege to serve as an executive producer and to be part of this remarkable journey alongside the talented filmmakers Adam J. Graves and Suchitra Mattai, as well as the powerful performances delivered by Sajda Pathan and Ananya Shanbhag. This recognition is a testament to the team's commitment and the strength of this poignant narrative," she stated.

In response, director Adam remarked that it is a "tremendous honour to be recognized among such exceptional films." He characterized Anuja as a product of collaboration among many skilled and passionate individuals.

"Most importantly, our two stars, Sajda and Ananya, delivered truly exceptional performances. There is nothing more rewarding than knowing that the film resonates emotionally with audiences while also highlighting the critical issue of child labour," Adam, who also penned the film, added.

About the film

Anuja tells the story of a nine-year-old girl named Anuja who, along with her elder sister Palak, portrayed by Ananya Shanbhag, toils in a garment factory located in a narrow alley in New Delhi, India. The narrative unfolds as Anuja receives an opportunity to enrol in a prestigious boarding school when a teacher visits the factory.

The film highlights the pressing issue of child labour within the garment sector. It also features actor Nagesh Bhonsle in a significant role.

Described as a "moving narrative of two sisters striving to discover joy and opportunities in a society that seeks to exploit and marginalize them," the lead role is performed by Sajda Pathan, who resides at an SBT centre that offers shelter to girls who previously lived on the streets of Delhi.

The project is supported by Mindy Kaling, Suchitra Mattai, Krishan Naik, Aaron Kopp, Ksheetij Saini, Alexandra Blaney, and Devananda Graves. Guneet serves as the executive producer alongside Michael Graves.

Read Also: Laapataa Ladies Oscars snub: Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao speak out after setback, 'This is not the end...'

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