Priyanka Chopra joins Oscar-shortlisted short film Anuja as executive producer; says, ‘I am immensely proud’

Priyanka Chopra Jonas has boarded the short film Anuja as executive producer. The film, which won the live-action short award at the 2024 HollyShorts Film Festival, has been shortlisted for the 2025 Academy Awards in the live-action short film category. PC is thrilled to announce her role as an executive producer for the film supported by Guneet Monga.

Priyanka Chopra turns executive producer for Anuja

Anuja tells the poignant story of a nine-year-old girl who works in a back-alley garment factory alongside her older sister, Palak. The narrative explores the difficult choices faced by the young protagonist, decisions that will profoundly affect her future and that of her family.

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Expressing her enthusiasm about being part of Anuja, Priyanka Chopra stated to Variety, “This beautiful film shines a spotlight on a subject that affects millions of children around the world, who are faced with the impossible decision between a future they cannot yet see and the immediate realities of their present.”

She further elaborated, “Anuja is a poignant, thought-provoking piece that makes us reflect deeply on the power of choices and how they shape the course of our lives. I am immensely proud to be associated with such a phenomenal and impactful project.”

About Anuja

The film is produced in collaboration with the Salaam Baalak Trust (SBT). It is a non-profit organization founded by Mira Nair’s family, dedicated to supporting street and working children. It also involves Shine Global which is known for its Academy Award-winning films. The movies are War/Dance (2007) and Inocente (2012), along with Krushan Naik Films. Notably, Mindy Kaling is among the producers, and Oscar-winner Guneet Monga Kapoor has also joined the team as a producer.

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This marks what could be Monga’s third Oscar nomination. It is followed by her earlier successes with The Elephant Whisperers and Period: End of Sentence. Both of which brought accolades to Indian cinema. In addition to Anuja, another Indian film competing for Oscar recognition is Santosh, a British-Indian project directed by Sandhya Suri. Starring Shahana Goswami, Santosh is the UK’s official entry for the Oscars. It premiered earlier this year in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival.

Priyanka Chopra’s involvement in Anuja highlights her commitment to impactful storytelling. She aims to bring attention to important social issues affecting children worldwide.

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