Exploring Identity and Resilience through Akash Raje's Lens in "Anuja"

“Anuja,” a critically acclaimed short film on Netflix, follows the titular character's journey of self-discovery and resilience, earning an Oscar nomination in 2025. Cinematographer Akash Raje’s innovative use of DaVinci Resolve Studio and custom LUTs crafts a striking, authentic visual style that amplifies its emotional depth.

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Anuja” is a moving short film that explores range of topics, including self-discovery, identity, and the expectations that society places on individuals. The journey of the film's principal character, Anuja, as she navigates several challenges that are personal and the societal constraints, forming the core subject of the film.

Directed by Adam J. Graves and produced by Suchitra Mattai, with executive producers Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Mindy Kaling, and Guneet Monga, the film highlights resilience and sisterhood. It features authentic performances by Sajda Pathan and Ananya Shanbhag, with Pathan being a real-life beneficiary of the Salaam Baalak Trust, a collaborator on the project. “Anuja” has garnered critical acclaim, winning Best Live Action Short at the 2024 HollyShorts Film Festival and securing a nomination for Best Live Action Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards in 2025, though it lost to “I'm Not a Robot.” The film, now streaming on Netflix, has been praised for its emotional depth and social impact. We spoke exclusively to the film's cinematographer Akash Raje to understand the vision behind “Anuja”.