On March 2, 2025, the excitement of the 97th Academy Awards in Los Angeles, California, will culminate with the announcement of this year’s Oscar winners. Among the illustrious nominations is the short film ‘Anuja’, which portrays the poignant tale of two orphaned Indian girls. Starring Sajda Pathan from Delhi as ‘Anuja’ and Ananya Shanbag from Bengaluru as her elder sister ‘Palak’, this film has garnered significant attention. Let us delve into the real-life stories of Sajda and Ananya, who are at the heart of this acclaimed narrative that recently premiered on Netflix.
Sajda Pathan, who plays the titular role in ‘Anuja’, is just 9 years old and resides in Delhi at the ‘Salam Baalak Trust’ NGO. Like her on-screen character, Sajda has faced the harsh realities of life as a child laborer. She was rescued by the Salam Baalak Trust, which also supports her education. Esteemed filmmaker Mira Nair is associated with this NGO, helping to draw international filmmakers interested in creating films that highlight the stories of children from such institutions. Prior to ‘Anuja’, Sajda showcased her talent in a two-hour feature film titled ‘The Brad’, and her aspirations lean towards a future in acting.
Unveiling Ananya Shanbag: A Rising Star and Dancer
Shifting our focus to Ananya Shanbag, who portrays Palak, Anuja’s elder sister in the film. Originally from Mumbai and currently studying in Bengaluru, Ananya has made her acting debut with ‘Anuja’. Not only is she an emerging actress, but she is also an accomplished dancer, having begun her formal Bharatanatyam training at the young age of six. Ananya’s mother is a Bharatanatyam dancer herself, further influencing her passion for dance. Before pursuing a full-time acting career, Ananya aims to complete her Master’s degree in Bharatanatyam from Christ University in Bangalore. She continues to perform dance shows across India, captivating audiences with her skills.
Special Encounter with Priyanka Chopra
In a delightful twist, both Sajda and Ananya had the chance to meet international superstar Priyanka Chopra, who has also connected with the film ‘Anuja’. The young stars were thrilled to meet Priyanka, who embraced them warmly and shared her excitement about their film being listed among the top five short films from around the world. This acknowledgment not only highlights the importance of their work but also instills confidence and inspiration in these budding actresses.
As we anticipate the Academy Awards, ‘Anuja’ stands as a powerful testament to storytelling, resilience, and talent, showcasing the rich narratives that arise from India’s vibrant culture and the lives of its children. The film serves as both an art piece and a voice for those who need it most, making Sajda and Ananya’s stories significant beyond the screen.