January 2025 – The Oscars 2025 have brought a ray of hope and pride for India as Anuja, a short film backed by powerhouse producer Guneet Monga and global icon Priyanka Chopra, secures a coveted nomination in the Best Live Action Short Film category. The announcement, delayed due to the catastrophic wildfires in California, has ignited excitement across the film fraternity and audiences alike.
Directed by American filmmaker Adam J. Graves, Anuja has emerged as a strong contender in its category, facing stiff competition from critically acclaimed films such as A Lien, I Am Not a Robot, The Man Who Couldn’t Keep Quiet and the Last Ranger. This marks another milestone for Indian cinema on the global stage, underscoring the rising influence of Indian-backed projects in Hollywood’s biggest awards show.
The road to the Oscars wasn’t entirely smooth for India this year. Kiran Rao’s The Missing Ladies, which was initially selected as India’s official submission, fell short of making it to the preliminary list. This setback shifted the nation’s focus to Anuja, raising hopes for recognition at the Academy Awards. True to expectations, the film has managed to bring India’s name back into the spotlight, a feat that resonates deeply with cinema enthusiasts.
Priyanka Chopra, who has consistently championed diverse storytelling, expressed her joy over the nomination, saying, “Being part of Anuja has been an incredible journey. It’s a story that needed to be told, and I’m thrilled that it’s receiving this global recognition.” Her sentiments echo the pride felt by fans worldwide, who see this nomination as another feather in her cap.
Producer Guneet Monga, known for her Oscar-winning documentary short Period. End of Sentence expressed her hope, saying, “Anuja’s nomination is proof of the strength of teamwork and narrative. It’s a proud moment for everyone involved.”
The 2025 Oscars season has been marked by an unprecedented delay in announcements due to the devastating California wildfires, which prompted organizers to prioritize safety over schedules. Despite these challenges, the nominations have brought some much-needed cheer to the industry, with Anuja shining brightly among the nominees.
As the countdown to the Academy Awards begins, all eyes are now on Anuja to see if it can clinch the prestigious Oscar. Whether it wins or not, its nomination alone is a monumental achievement, highlighting the growing impact of Indian talent and stories on the global stage.
The Oscars 2025 ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 23rd, and it promises to be an evening of celebration, resilience, and cultural exchange. For India, Anuja represents more than just a nomination—it’s a beacon of hope and a reminder of the universal power of storytelling.
