Priyanka Chopra says she’s proud of beautiful film ‘Anuja’

Mumbai, (IANS) Actress Priyanka Chopra says she is proud of the “beautiful film” “Anuja”,in which she serves as an executive producer.

Priyanka took to her Instagram stories, where she shared a snapshot of a news article from variety.com, which had the title “Netflix Acquires ‘Anuja,’ Oscar-Shortlisted Short Film Backed by Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Mindy Kaling and Guneet Monga Kapoor”.

The Indian actress captioned it: “Proud of this beautiful film”.

As per the article on the publication, streaming giant Netflix has landed worldwide streaming rights to “Anuja,” the Oscar-shortlisted live-action short that counts Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Mindy Kaling and Academy Award winner Guneet Monga Kapoor among its backers.

Directed by Adam J. Graves “Anuja” tells the tale of a 9-year-old title character, who works in a back-alley garment factory with her older sister Palak. The narrative follows the young protagonist as she faces a decision that will impact both her future and her family.

The short, developed in partnership with Mira Nair’s Salaam Baalak Trust, features Sajda Pathan, in a leading role. The production team spans Graves Films, Shine Global Inc (Oscar winners “War/Dance” and “Inocente”), Krushan Naik Films and Salaam Baalak Trust.

Guneet said of ‘Anuja’ that it is a story of unparalleled courage, a film made with a lot of heart. Director Adam J. Graves delivers a message through an empowered and entertaining lens.

“I’m honoured to be part of the journey ahead, alongside producers Mindy Kaling, Suchitra Mattai and Krushan Naik, and now one of the most powerful Brown voices to champion our story — Priyanka Chopra Jonas.”

Mindy Kaling added: “‘Anuja’ is a story that means so much to me – it’s powerful, hopeful, and full of life, just like the incredible young girls it represents. I’m deeply passionate about this film and grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Suchitra Mattai and Adam Graves to bring this important narrative to life.”

“The film brings attention to crucial issues while celebrating resilience, humor, and hope. I’m delighted that, with Netflix joining the team, the conversation will expand as it reaches audiences far and wide.”

The supporting cast includes Ananya Shanbhag and Nagesh Bhosle, with cinematography by Akash Raje and music from Fabrizio Mancinelli.Graves said: “‘Anuja’ is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and untold stories of working children, highlighting their joy and hope amidst challenges. The film captures the innocence and magic of childhood, brought to life through collaboration with Salaam Baalak Trust and the insights of NGOs such as the Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation and Save the Children." Priyanka Chopra says she’s proud of beautiful film ‘Anuja’ | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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Leonardo DiCaprio to donate $1 million to LA fire relief efforts

CANNES, May 22, 2019 (Xinhua) -- Actor Leonardo DiCaprio poses during a photocall for "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" during the 72nd Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 22, 2019. "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" will compete for the Palme d'Or with 20 other films. (Xinhua/Gao Jing/IANS)

Los Angeles, (IANS) Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio is donating $1 million to help Los Angeles recover from the devastating wildfires.

The Oscar winner announced on his Instagram Stories Wednesday, January 15 that he is donating $1 million toward relief efforts, reports people.com.

"The Los Angeles wildfires are devastating our city. I am committing $1 million in partnership with @rewild's Rapid Response Program to support both urgent needs and post-fire recovery efforts," he wrote.

"Initial aid will immediately benefit the LA Fire Department Foundation, California Fire Foundation, World Central Kitchen, California Community Foundation, Pasadena Humane Society, and SoCal Fire Fund — organizations on the frontlines providing much-needed resources to our first responders and firefighters, and the people, animals and communities who need it most," added the “Don't Look Up” actor.

DiCaprio, who grew up in L.A., co-founded Re:wild, and he wrote that its Rapid Response Program is "uniquely positioned to respond to environmental disasters and emergencies."

The wildfires that sparked on Jan. 7 have become the most destructive in L.A. history, with thousands of people displaced and a death toll currently set at 25.

Jamie Lee Curtis' family pledged to donate $1 million toward disaster relief efforts to support "our great city and state and the great people who live and love there," she said on January 9.

Jennifer Garner, Jessica Alba, Halle Berry and more stars have volunteered to help first responders and families affected by the fires.

Grammy-winner Beyoncé is helping those affected by the Los Angeles fires through her BeyGOOD charity foundation. The charity foundation was said to donate $2.5 million to help families rebuild after they’ve suffered losses, reports variety.com.

The Walt Disney Company pledged $15 million to relief and rebuilding efforts for communities, while Paramount and Fox Corp. donated $1 million with contributions to the American Red Cross and the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Warner Music and Blavatnik Foundation announced an initial $1 million commitment to the Los Angeles area fire relief and rebuilding efforts.In addition to direct financial donations, Live Nation is planning to hold a FireAid benefit concert at Inglewood, CA’s Intuit Dome on January 30. Leonardo DiCaprio to donate $1 million to LA fire relief efforts | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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