Sajda Pathan’s performance is made all the more poignant by her own real-life experience as a survivor of Delhi’s streets
Netflix continues to shine a spotlight on powerful storytelling with Anuja, the Oscar-shortlisted live-action short film directed by Adam J. Graves and produced by Suchitra Mattai. This gripping and emotionally charged film delves deep into the world of a 9-year-old girl, Anuja, portrayed by the remarkable Sajda Pathan. Alongside her sister Palak (Ananya Shanbhag), Anuja works tirelessly in a garment factory in Delhi, India. Her journey, filled with heart-wrenching decisions and unimaginable challenges, ultimately shapes her family’s fate and her own future.
Developed in collaboration with the Salaam Baalak Trust, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting street and working children, Anuja
offers an authentic and unfiltered portrayal of a life few of us can
imagine. Sajda Pathan’s performance is made all the more poignant by her own real-life experience as a survivor of Delhi’s streets. The film serves as a harrowing yet hopeful tribute to the resilience, joy, and dreams of children forced into labour.
A Global Story That Deserves to Be Seen
Director Adam J. Graves has crafted Anuja as more than just a film, it’s a movement, shedding light on the untold stories of working children. The film takes audiences through the daily struggles, the small victories, and the crushing realities of child labour, challenging viewers to consider their own roles in a world where such injustices persist. Shortlisted for the 97th Academy Awards in the Best Live Action Short Film category, Anuja has garnered immense critical acclaim, cementing its place as a must-watch for audiences worldwide.
Netflix’s decision to acquire Anuja for global streaming underscores its commitment to amplifying diverse voices and introducing fresh, thought-provoking narratives. By bringing such a socially relevant film to its platform, Netflix ensures that stories like Anuja’s are no longer overlooked. This move also signals an important shift in the global film industry, where streaming platforms are becoming catalysts for change by showcasing films that provoke thought and inspire action.
A Stellar Team Behind the Scenes
Hollywood powerhouses Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Mindy Kaling, and Oscar-winner Guneet Monga Kapoor have all lent their support to this extraordinary film. Chopra Jonas, who joined the project as an executive producer, calls Anuja, “poignant and deeply thought-provoking,” praising its ability to highlight the power of choices and their lasting impact. Her involvement brings additional credibility to the film, given her longstanding advocacy for children’s rights and gender equality.
Monga Kapoor, who previously won an Oscar for The Elephant Whisperers, describes Anuja as a tribute to the unbreakable spirit of the children served by Salaam Baalak Trust. She emphasizes the power of collaboration in storytelling and the film’s ability to ignite change. Monga Kapoor has consistently used her platform to produce films that push boundaries and challenge the status quo, and Anuja is yet another example of her commitment to meaningful storytelling.
Mindy Kaling, another prominent supporter of the film, expresses her passion for Anuja, calling it, “hopeful, powerful, and full of life; just like the young girls it represents.” Her enthusiasm reflects the film’s ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level, making it a standout addition to Netflix’s collection of critically acclaimed films. As a storyteller known for blending humour with deep cultural narratives, Kaling’s endorsement speaks volumes about the emotional and social weight of Anuja.
A Cast That Brings the Story to Life
The film boasts powerful performances from its young leads, Sajda Pathan and Ananya Shanbhag, whose raw and compelling portrayals make Anuja an unforgettable experience. Their performances breathe life into the story, capturing the innocence, strength, and vulnerabilities of children trapped in difficult circumstances. Pathan, in particular, brings an authenticity to the role that is rarely seen in mainstream cinema, drawing from her own life experiences to create a performance that lingers with audiences long after the credits roll.
Veteran Indian television actor Nagesh Bhonsle, known internationally for his role in Hotel Mumbai, also adds depth and gravitas to the film’s ensemble. His ability to seamlessly transition between mainstream and independent cinema has allowed him to bring a nuanced approach to his role, further enriching the narrative of Anuja.
Award-Winning Recognition
Beyond its Oscar shortlist status, Anuja has already made waves at major film festivals. It has secured prestigious accolades such as Best Live Action Short at the HollyShorts Film Festival, the Audience Award at Montclair Film Festival, and the Grand Prize at the New York International Short Film Festival. These achievements are a testament to the film’s profound emotional depth and cultural significance.
Each award solidifies the impact of Anuja on the global stage, proving that stories about real-world struggles, when told with sincerity and authenticity, resonate with audiences across cultures. The film’s presence in international film festivals has also sparked important conversations about ethical labour practices, education access, and the role of cinema in advocating for social justice.
The Bigger Picture: Why Anuja Matters
At its core, Anuja is not just a film; it’s a reflection of a global issue that affects millions of children worldwide. Child labour remains one of the most pressing human rights concerns, with over 160 million children engaged in work that deprives them of education, safety, and a future. Anuja brings this crisis to the forefront, reminding viewers that behind every statistic is a child with dreams, aspirations, and the right to a better life.
The film’s release aligns with Shine Global’s mission to produce impactful films about underserved children, ensuring that voices like Anuja’s are heard and acknowledged. The more audiences engage with films like this, the more awareness spreads, ultimately contributing to larger conversations around policy change, ethical consumption, and human rights advocacy.
Watch Anuja: A Story That Will Stay With You
With Netflix’s reach extending to over 190 countries, Anuja is set to touch hearts and spark critical conversations about resilience, hope, and the harsh realities of child labour. More than just entertainment, the film serves as a call to action, urging audiences to reflect on their own roles in the larger societal structure that allows injustices like child labour to persist.
In a world where many stories remain untold, Anuja stands out as a beacon of truth, strength, and determination. Through its authentic storytelling, powerful performances, and the backing of influential producers, the film not only brings awareness to a pressing social issue but also celebrates the enduring resilience of the human spirit.
Don’t miss this incredible, thought-provoking film, now streaming on Netflix. Watch Anuja and be part of the conversation. Let this film move you, inspire you, and most importantly, remind you of the power of storytelling to change lives.
