Nandita Das



Acclaimed Indian actress Nandita Das has developed an international reputation for being extremely selective in the roles she chooses to play as a film artist. She has consistently broken the stereotypical image of the Bollywood heroine. Nandita is known to world audiences for her critically acclaimed performances in the films Fire, Earth (both directed by Deepa Mehta), Bawander (directed by Jagmohan Mundhra) and Amar Bhuvan (directed by Mrinal Sen). She has performed in over 25 feature films, many of which have been showcased in numerous international film festivals. She won the Best Actress award for her performance in the film Bawander at the Santa Monica Film Festival (2001). Her compelling acting as a rape victim in this film got her accolades from critics and audiences worldwide. She also won the Best Actress award for her stellar performance in Amar Bhuvan at the Cairo Film Festival (2002).

Known to never shy away from a controversial issue or an unconventional role, Nandita Das has attracted the attention of artists, critics and film lovers across the globe. She firmly believes that as films have such a mass appeal, they can be used as a powerful instrument for social change. Her passion and commitment comes from her background as a social activist, who has continuously supported Human Rights' issues and rights for women and children in particular. She holds a Masters degree in Social work and her involvement in social issues was first as an active member of a street theatre group and thereafter through her work with various NGOs.

She has also directed four public service short films for Civil Society Organizations. These films were produced by Leapfrog, a socio-communication organization founded jointly by Nandita and her husband Saumya Sen. Nandita's been a featured speaker at various universities and social forums, both in India and abroad. She had the honour of being part of the main jury at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in May 2005. She's the daughter of noted painter-father Jatin Das and accomplished writer-mother Varsha Das. She has a younger brother, Siddhartha who is a graphic and exhibition designer.