By samiya Rizvi | Project Leader
We are incredibly honored to announce that Anuja has been nominated for Best Live Action Short Film at the Academy Awards 2025! This powerful story of resilience, sisterhood, and hope showcases the incredible journey of Sajda Pathan, a 10-year-old girl from the Yamuna Bazar slum in Delhi.
Sajda Pathan: A Story of Transformation
Sajda once spent her days seeking alms from temple visitors and wandering temple grounds. Her life took a transformative turn when a Salaam Baalak Trust (SBT) outreach worker connected with her family. Encouraged by the social worker, she began attending non-formal education classes at SBT’s Yamuna Bazar center.
Her talent was soon recognized by a French film crew casting for The Braid, directed by Laetitia Colombani. Sajda was cast as the lead, taking her to Varanasi and Mysore, where she starred alongside Mia Maelzer. Moved by her performance, the production house pledged to sponsor her education until adulthood. Now, Sajda lives at SBT’s Udaan Home for Girls, proving that when given opportunities, children can achieve extraordinary heights.
"Anuja" – A Powerful New Journey
Following her remarkable debut, Sajda is set for her next adventure in Anuja. In this poignant short film, she portrays a young girl from a fictional slum, delving into critical issues such as child labor, the global supply chain, and women’s education. The film has garnered widespread acclaim, earning a prestigious Oscar nomination for Best Live Action Short Film.
Sajda Pathan’s journey stands as a beacon of hope for children everywhere. With the right support and opportunities, every child has the potential to reach unimaginable heights.
The Visionaries Behind "Anuja"
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