Despite high expectations, only the short film Anuja secures an Oscar nomination, leaving behind notable Indian contenders like Kanguva and All We Imagine As Light.
January 24, 2025: “Oscars 2025: Indian Hopes Dashed as 9 Films Snubbed, ‘Anuja’ Emerges as Lone Contender”
As the 97th Academy Awards nominations were unveiled, Indian cinema found itself with a bittersweet outcome. Despite immense anticipation for multiple entries to secure recognition, only the short film Anuja, co-produced by Guneet Monga and Priyanka Chopra, received a nomination for Best Live Action Short Film. This lone acknowledgment stands out amidst the glaring omission of nine high-profile Indian films that had generated significant Oscar buzz.
Among the snubbed Indian contenders were Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, Putul, Aadujeevitham: The Goat Life, All We Imagine As Light, Band of Maharajas, Kanguva, The Zebras, Girls Will Be Girls, and Santosh. These films, representing a diverse spectrum of Indian storytelling, failed to make the cut, leaving fans and filmmakers disappointed.
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‘Anuja’ – The Lone Flagbearer
Directed by Adam J. Graves, Anuja tells the poignant story of nine-year-old Anuja, played by Sajda Pathan. Working in a garment factory in Delhi alongside her sister Palak, portrayed by Ananya Shanbhag, Anuja faces a life-altering decision that places her family’s future on her young shoulders. The heartwarming narrative has earned critical acclaim, making it a deserving nominee.
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The nomination cements Guneet Monga and Priyanka Chopra’s continued contributions to Indian cinema on the global stage. Their association with Anuja adds to their impressive track records, showcasing India’s evolving footprint in international cinema.
A Night to Look Forward To
The nominations were revealed during a live-streamed ceremony hosted by comedians Rachel Sennott and Bowen Yang at the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater. The event introduced nominees across all 24 categories, setting the stage for the main ceremony.
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The 97th Academy Awards, set to take place on March 2 at the iconic Dolby Theatre, will be hosted by Conan O’Brien. With Anuja as the sole Indian representation, all eyes will be on its journey to potentially bring home the Oscar.
While Indian cinema faced setbacks with its Oscar aspirations this year, Anuja’s nomination serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the industry’s potential to shine on the global stage.
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