Vinta Nanda, a well-known TV director, has sparked a debate about the Oscars’ system after calling out producers Priyanka Chopra and Guneet Monga. Nanda believes they shouldn’t have been given the spotlight as “producers” for the short film Anuja. The film, directed by Adam J Graves and Suchitra Mattai, is set in Delhi and has gained worldwide attention after being nominated for the Best Live Action Short category at the 2025 Oscars. It’s also the only Indian representation at the prestigious event.
While Priyanka Chopra, Guneet Monga, and Mindy Kaling celebrated the film’s Oscar nomination, Nanda has questioned their roles in the project. She posted on Instagram, saying that the current system is flawed. “Curators walk away with the Oscar nominations and awards as producers. Meanwhile, the struggles of the artists and the real producers go unnoticed. What kind of world are we living in?” Nanda wrote.
Her comment has grabbed the attention of many, including actor-director Ananth Mahadevan, who echoed her sentiments. “It’s all about connections and networking. The real work doesn’t matter,” he said in a comment on Nanda’s post. Nanda agreed, adding that it’s time to call out the issue. “Enough is enough,” she said in her reply.
The heart of the matter lies in the idea of who truly deserves to be called a producer. In the film industry, the title of “producer” is often reserved for those who handle the day-to-day management of the project, including funding, coordination, and overseeing production. However, curators, executive producers, or high-profile individuals like Chopra and Monga can sometimes receive producer credits, even if their role doesn’t include the core responsibilities.
The debate has sparked a wider conversation about fairness and recognition in the film industry. Nanda’s criticism isn’t just about Anuja but about a larger problem she believes affects many projects. She argues that the real people behind the scenes, such as the struggling artists and actual producers, often get overshadowed by influential figures who get credit for their high-profile involvement.
Priyanka Chopra, Guneet Monga, and Mindy Kaling are undoubtedly influential figures in the entertainment world. Priyanka, a global star, has worked across both Bollywood and Hollywood, while Guneet Monga is a celebrated film producer, known for her Oscar-winning film Period. End of Sentence. However, Nanda feels that their prominence sometimes leads to their receiving accolades that might not always align with their actual contributions.
At the same time, the film Anuja has resonated with many due to its unique story and the talent behind it. The nomination has been seen as a win for diversity in the global film scene. Yet, some argue that the true essence of Anuja should be celebrated for its artistic value, not for the fame of those associated with it.
The Oscars, one of the most prestigious events in the film world, has faced criticism for its perceived lack of transparency and fairness in recent years. This controversy is just one example of how the system is often questioned. Some filmmakers and industry insiders feel that the people who put in the hard work are sometimes left behind in favor of those who have the right connections.
The discussion surrounding Anuja is not just about one short film. It’s about the bigger issue of how films are recognized and who gets credit for their success. As Nanda puts it, “The struggle of the artists and their producers is completely eclipsed.” This statement reflects a deeper issue that goes beyond individual films or Oscars nominations. It’s about creating a fairer system that acknowledges the people who truly make a difference.
As the Oscars 2025 draw closer, it’s likely that this debate will continue to grow. Whether or not the system will change is unclear, but conversations like these are a step in the right direction. For now, all eyes will be on Anuja and its team as they navigate the complexities of the film industry and the ever-changing world of awards.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Oscars and the ongoing discussion about fairness and recognition in the entertainment industry.
