From thought-provoking films and captivating books to music that gets you grooving, here are our recommendations for what to watch, read and listen to this week.
Anuja
Produced by Mindy Kaling and Priyanka Chopra, this Hindi short film follows the story of Anuja, a nine-year-old gifted maths student who works in a sweatshop. When given a rare chance to attend school, she is forced to make a decision that alters her and her sister’s lives for good.
Set in India, the story sheds light on the struggles of working children, highlighting their hopes for a better life. In just 23 minutes, director Adam J. Graves crafts a poignant narrative that resonates beyond its runtime, leaving a strong emotional impact.
The film premiered last August and has recently made waves online following its nomination for Best Live Action Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards this year. It dropped on Netflix on Feb 5.
Acts Of God
Primarily a stand-up comedian from India, Kanan Gill believes being a writer was his original calling. As far as his debut novel proves, we shouldn’t doubt him.
Acts Of God explores themes surrounding dystopian worlds interspersed with science-fiction and humour, and critics have lauded him as a novelist and for his inventiveness and story-building skills – all while wryly questioning the nature of our existence. The book currently holds a 4.4 out of 5 star rating on Amazon.
For those not familiar with Gill’s comedic material and relatable anecdotes about Indian life, watch his “There is a cow” bit on YouTube –“You are on one side of the road. On the other side is progress. But in the middle, there is a cow. How do you cross?”
Sithira Puthiri
Sithira Puthiri is the latest song from Sai Abhyankkar, an up-and-coming Indian composer and singer whose previous hit Aasai Kooda garnered over 30 million views on YouTube and over 125 million streams on Spotify.
His music videos are often a hit with fans with its trending hook steps, vibrant costumes and elaborate sets.
The video to Sithira Puthiri dropped on Jan 31 and features Meenakshi Chaudhary who starred in G.O.A.T. The song is currently trending on the Hot Hits Tamil playlist on Spotify.
Sai is set to score the music of the upcoming Tamil film Suriya 45, which will feature Jai Bhim star Suriya in RJ Balaji’s directorial.
Sakti Singaravelu
