In the movie ANU, set to release in 2023, we follow the journey of Anushka (Anu), a 12-year-old South Asian-American girl grappling with the recent loss of her beloved grandfather. Struggling to cope with her grief, Anu finds solace in her imagination and spirituality.
As Anu delves deeper into her heritage, she becomes convinced that her grandfather could be reincarnated as the holy figure Siddhartha, often associated with Buddha. This belief sparks a profound and transformative journey for Anu, as she sets out on a quest to connect with her grandfather's spirit and seek answers to life's biggest questions.
In her pursuit, Anu encounters various challenges and obstacles that test her courage, resilience, and faith. Along the way, she encounters a diverse and eclectic cast of characters who become instrumental in shaping her perspective and guiding her spiritual awakening.
As her understanding of life, death, and spirituality evolves, Anu's journey becomes a testament to the power of belief, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between family and tradition. Through her extraordinary adventure, Anu not only finds the strength to cope with her grief but also learns valuable lessons about identity, acceptance, and the importance of embracing one's cultural heritage.
ANU weaves together elements of magical realism, cultural exploration, and spirituality, immersing viewers in a visually stunning and emotionally resonant coming-of-age story. Sudeshna Sen's poignant film promises to be a heartfelt exploration of loss, discovery, and the extraordinary journey of self-discovery embarked upon by a young girl seeking to reconcile her past and shape her future.
