Sajda Pathan Opens Up About Her Oscar-Nominated Role and Love for English
Sajda Pathan, the lead actress in the Oscar-nominated short film Anuja, has captured the world’s attention with her powerful performance. Despite playing the role of a talented nine-year-old girl facing life-altering choices, Sajda herself doesn’t understand English fluently—yet English is her favorite subject. In an exclusive interview, the young star shared her experiences working on the film and her aspirations for the future.
Anuja, directed by Adam J. Graves and produced by Suchitra Mattai, Guneet Monga, Mindy Kaling, and Priyanka Chopra, tells the heart-wrenching story of a girl caught between the bond with her sibling and the desire for a better future. Sajda, who played the lead, was also rescued from child labor by Salaam Baalak Trust, a reality that parallels her character’s struggles.
When asked about her favorite subject, Sajda expressed her passion for learning English. “Mastering English will help me communicate better with people, especially those from outside India. It will open doors to new connections, experiences, and opportunities,” she shared. Aspiring to become an actor, she sees English as a key to bringing her characters to life.
Sajda also spoke warmly about the people who helped shape her journey in Anuja. Her director, Adam J. Graves, was not only a mentor but also her best friend. “His encouragement and unwavering belief in me made the journey special,” Sajda said. Her acting coach, Pankaj Bhaiya, played a pivotal role in her development as an actor, teaching her the importance of dedication and seriousness in every scene.
As Sajda continues her journey toward becoming an actor, it’s clear that the road ahead will be shaped by her resilience, love for learning, and the people who support her along the way.
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