Anusha Rizvi

Director
Writer
Actor

On the eve of national elections in the Indian village of Peepli, two poor farmers, Natha and Budhia, face losing their land over an unpaid government loan. Desperate, they seek help from an apathetic local politician, who suggests they commit suicide to benefit from a government program that aids the families of indebted deceased farmers. When a journalist overhears Budhia urge Natha to "do what needs to be done" for the sake of their families, a media frenzy ignites around whether or not Natha will commit suicide.

Play trailer2:27

Peepli Live (2010)

Anusha is an Indian film director and screenwriter. Formerly a journalist, Anusha's directorial debut Peepli (Live) premiered at the Sundance Film Festival 2010 in the World Competition Section and was the first Indian film to be accepted in the 25 years of the festival's existence. The film was later nominated as India's official entry to the 83rd Academy Awards. Peepli (Live) won the Guild Award for Best Story, and the Best Film Award at the Durban Film festival. Anusha has also directed documentaries including Hijack IC-814 for National Geographic and Amul and Khadi for the BBC. She is currently developing an original series project with a leading Indian OTT platform.