Oscar-shortlisted film Anuja to be released on Netflix

Oscar-shortlisted film Anuja is set to be released on Netflix, allowing global audiences to experience the moving drama ahead of the awards season.

Anuja centres around a young girl's courage and the tough choices she must make for her future. The story unfolds around 9-year-old Anuja, who works in a backstreet garment factory alongside her older sister, Palak.

As the story progresses, Anuja is confronted with a life-altering decision that will not only affect her own future but also the wellbeing of those she holds dear.

Surrey Live reports the film delves into various themes, including hope, resilience, and the challenges faced by underprivileged children forced to work at a tender age.

Directed by Adam J. Graves, the film boasts a cast featuring Sajda Pathan, Ananya Shanbhag, Nagesh Bhonsle, Gulshan Walia and Sushil Parwana.

Several high-profile celebrities, including Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Mindy Kaling and Guneet Monga Kapoor, have expressed their support for the impactful film.

The film made its debut on August 17, 2024, at the HollyShorts Film Festival and was shortlisted for Best Live Action Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards in December of the same year.

Since then, it has won the Audience Award for Short Film at the Montclair Film Festival before Netflix secured the distribution rights earlier this month.

According to early viewers, the short film currently holds an impressive 8.6 rating on IMDb.

Guneet, a producer on the film, has conveyed her thanks to Netflix for giving the film the opportunity to captivate audiences worldwide.

Mindy, also behind the scenes as a producer, remarked: "It's powerful, hopeful, and full of life, just like the incredible young girls it represents."

After being charmed by its uplifting message, Bollywood heavyweight Priyanka came aboard as an executive producer.

Celebrating the films achievement, Priyanka shared her pride on Instagram stories saying: "Proud of this beautiful film."

The making of the film saw active collaboration with community groups such as Salaam Baalak Trust, an Indian not-for-profit that aids street and working children in Delhi.

Anuja will premiere on Netflix later this year