Priyanka Chopra Joins as Executive Producer for Oscar-Shortlisted Film ‘Anuja’
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Mumbai, Jan 8 (NationPress) Actress and producer Priyanka Chopra Jonas has officially taken on the role of executive producer for the short film ‘Anuja’.
This film, which recently secured the live-action short award at the 2024 HollyShorts Film Festival, has also made the shortlist for the 2025 Academy Awards in the live-action short film category, as reported by Variety.
Directed by Adam J. Graves and produced by Suchitra Mattai, the story revolves around a 9-year-old girl named Anuja, who toils in a back-alley garment factory alongside her older sister, Palak.
According to Variety, the storyline follows the young protagonist as she confronts a pivotal choice that will significantly affect both her future and her family.
Priyanka stated, “This beautiful film shines a spotlight on a subject that affects millions of children across the globe, who are faced with the impossible decision between a future they cannot yet see and the immediate realities of their present. ‘Anuja’ is a poignant, thought-provoking piece that makes us reflect deeply on the power of choices and how they shape the course of our lives. I am immensely proud to be associated with such a phenomenal and impactful project.”
The film was created in collaboration with the Salaam Baalak Trust (SBT), a nonprofit organization founded by the family of Mira Nair to support street and working children, alongside Shine Global, known for its Academy Award-winning films such as “War/Dance” (2007) and “Inocente” (2012), and Krushan Naik Films. Notably, Mindy Kaling is among the producers of this film, and Guneet Monga Kapoor, an Oscar winner, has also joined as an executive producer.
Lead actress Sajda Pathan brings authenticity to her role, drawing from her own experiences of surviving in the streets of old Delhi with her sister before receiving support through the Salaam Baalak Trust.
Mattai expressed, “Priyanka’s faith in the power of ‘Anuja’s story means a lot to us, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have her join our team.”
