Nandita Das
About
Nandita Das is known for creating path-breaking cinema and her immensely controversial film Fire. She is a powerhouse of talent and of substantial mettle and her work as an actor and director is critically acclaimed over the years.
From featuring in the movie Fire that dealt with homosexuality around 25 years ago to stepping into the man's world of film direction, she has had many roles to play in her life including that of a social and a human rights activist.
Her film Manto (2018), a biographical drama about the prominent and controversial Urdu author Saadat Hasan Manto, premiered in Cannes film festival and was also screened at Toronto International film festival.
She won critical acclaim for her movies including Fire, Earth, Provoked, Bawandar, Hazaar Chaurasi ki Maa, Azhagi, Kamli, Before The Rains and many more. She’s acted in about 40 feature films in 12 different languages and has been acclaimed for many of her performances.
In 2020, during the pandemic, she wrote, directed and acted in a short film called, Listen to Her. The 7 min film focused on the increase in domestic violence and overburden of work that women are facing during the lock-down. It was supported by UNESCO, UNFPA, UNICEF, UN Women and South Asia Foundation.
Nandita prioritizes her social work above her cinema work. She’s advocated for social issues and actively participated in several campaigns. She has worked for children’s rights, spreading awareness on HIV/AIDS, domestic violence against women and many more.
Awards and Accomplishments
Awards and Accomplishments
- Nandita has served twice on the jury of Cannes Film Festival. (2005 & 2013)
- Her directorial venture Firaaq won more than 20 awards including the prestigious International Thessaloniki Film Festival award in 2008.
- She has received the Government of France’s highest civilian award, the Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters in 2011.
- In 2011, Nandita became the very first Indian inducted into the International Hall of Fame of the International Women’s
Forum in Washington DC. - In 2014, she became a recipient of Yale World Fellows honor where she was one of the 16 emerging global leaders chosen from 4000 applicants.
Why Nandita Das ?
Nandita demonstrates her commitment and passion for her profession through her roles as an activist, writer, director, and performer. Her resilience and choice of courageous projects makes her an excellent representative of caliber and talent.
