Mumbai, 29th January 2025: Netflix is set to bring its audiences another deeply moving story with the Oscar-nominated live-action short film Anuja, premiering globally on 5th February 2025. Directed by Adam J. Graves and produced by Suchitra Mattai, this emotionally compelling film showcases a story of survival, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bond between two sisters.

The story follows Anuja, a gifted nine-year-old girl, and her seventeen-year-old sister, Palak, as they work tirelessly in a garment factory to make ends meet. When Anuja is given a life-changing opportunity to attend an elite boarding school, the sisters face a heartbreaking dilemma—one that resonates with countless young girls across the world.

A Global Platform for a Universal Story

Expressing her excitement about the Netflix release, producer Mindy Kaling shared:
“It is a dream come true to have Anuja on Netflix, where it can be seen by the worldwide audience it deserves. I’m so grateful to Bela Bajaria and Netflix India for seeing what I saw in this beautiful short film!”

Director Adam J. Graves added:
“Suchitra and I are incredibly grateful that Anuja has found a home on Netflix. This story of hope was brought to life through the dedication of so many talented and passionate people. We are thrilled that audiences around the world will finally get to experience it.”

A Stellar Creative Team

The film is backed by an exceptional team of producers including Suchitra Mattai, Mindy Kaling, Guneet Monga Kapoor, Krushan Naik, Aaron Kopp, Devananda Graves, Michael Graves, Ksheetij Saini, and Alexandra Blaney. Academy Award-winning actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Anita Bhatia serve as Executive Producers.

Anuja’s authenticity is deeply rooted in its collaboration with Mira Nair’s Salaam Baalak Trust, a nonprofit that supports and empowers street and working children. The film’s lead actress Sajda Pathan, herself a beneficiary of the trust, delivers a performance that is both raw and powerful.

Oscar Recognition & Netflix Debut

With an Academy Award nomination for Best Live Action Short, Anuja has already garnered global recognition. Now, with its Netflix premiere, this inspiring story of sisterhood and perseverance is set to reach audiences in over 190 countries.

“We hope Anuja resonates with audiences worldwide, just as it has with the Academy,” said the film’s producers. “This story deserves to be told, and we are honored that Netflix is giving it a global stage.”

📅 Mark your calendars—Anuja begins streaming exclusively on Netflix from 5th February 2025.

Film Credits & Production Details

🎬 Production: Graves Films, Shine Global Inc, Krushan Naik Films, and Salaam Baalak Trust (SBT)
🎥 Director/Writer: Adam J. Graves
📜 Screenplay: Adam J. Graves
🛠️ Producers: Suchitra Mattai, Mindy Kaling, Guneet Monga Kapoor, Krushan Naik, Aaron Kopp, Devananda Graves, Michael Graves, Ksheetij Saini, Alexandra Blaney
💡 Executive Producers: Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Michael Graves, Anita Bhatia
🎼 Music: Fabrizio Mancinelli
🎞 Director of Photography: Akash Raje
🎬 Editing: Krushan Naik

🎭 Key Cast:

Ananya Shanbhag as Palak

Sajda Pathan as Anuja

Nagesh Bhosle as Mr. Verma


🔗 Production Partnership: Salaam Baalak Trust (SBT), Shine Global (Emmy & Oscar-winning production house), Krushan Naik Films

Don’t Miss It!

🗓 Premieres Worldwide on: 5th February 2025
📍 Streaming Platform: Netflix