New Delhi: The Oscars 2025 saw tough competition in the Best Live Action Short category, but India’s New Delhi-set coming-of-age film 'Anuja' couldn’t take home the golden statue. The award went to the Dutch-language sci-fi film 'I’m Not a Robot' by Victoria Warmerdam.

'I’m Not a Robot' follows the story of Max, who, after failing an online CAPTCHA test, starts questioning his own humanity.

“After failing an online CAPTCHA test, Max faces an existential crisis when he believes he might actually be a robot,” reads the film’s intriguing synopsis.

Anuja 

Directed by Adam J Graves and Suchitra Mattai, 'Anuja' tells the heart-wrenching tale of a gifted nine-year-old girl who faces a life-altering decision: to continue her education or work in a factory alongside her sister. The decision she makes will shape both their futures. The short film stars Sajda Pathan and Ananya Shanbhag in key roles.

The film had some major backing, with two-time Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga and global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas as executive producers. Hollywood writer-actor Mindy Kaling also served as a producer on the project.

A Collaboration for a cause

'Anuja' was made in collaboration with Salaam Baalak Trust (SBT), a nonprofit founded by filmmaker Mira Nair’s family to support street and working children. It was also backed by Shine Global and Krushan Naik Films, adding a strong social impact angle to its compelling narrative.

The competition 

Besides 'Anuja' and 'I’m Not a Robot', the Best Live Action Short category had strong contenders, including 'A Lien', 'The Last Ranger', and 'The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent'.

Where to watch

Though 'Anuja' didn’t win the Oscar, fans can still catch it on Netflix, where it is currently streaming.

The 97th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien, were broadcast live in India on JioHotstar and Star Plus from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.

PTI