Priyanka Chopra and Guneet Monga-supported film Anuja received a nomination at the 97th Academy Awards. The film earned a nomination for Best Live Action Short Film. As the buzz around the film is gaining momentum, the focus is on the film’s 9-year-old lead actor.

Directed by Adam J. Graves and Suchitra MattaiAnuja is the story of Anuja, a talented 9-year-old girl who faces a life-changing choice between getting an education or working in a factory with her sister.

The film stars Sajda Pathan in the lead role, while Ananya Shanbaug plays her sister. This film is based on the backdrop of New Delhi.

Now, while many fans are congratulating the makers for this new achievement, some people are speculating about a girl named Sajda Pathan. He has his own cinematic journey which we are sure not many people know about.

Sajda, who came from slums, was rescued from the streets by an NGO. He previously worked in The Braid (La Trese), a French film directed by Laetitia Colombani, where he shared screen space with Mia Meltzer.

Sajda was a former child laborer from Delhi. He was rescued by Salaam Balak Trust. Established in 1988 with the proceeds of Mira Nair’s Oscar-nominated film Salaam Bombay, the Trust has co-produced the film in partnership with Krishna Naik Films.

Anuja is supported by a remarkable team of producers: Suchitra Matai, Mindy Kaling, Guneet Monga Kapoor, Krishna Naik, Aaron Kopp, Devanand Graves, Michael Graves, Kshitij Saini and Alexandra Blaney. Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Anita Bhatia are on board as executive producers. Co-executive producers include Archana Jain, Susan McLaury, Albie Hecht.

Anuja is currently streaming on Netflix.