Once in a while, among all the celebrities we see doing the same type of films, comes a person who does something a little hatke and really shines at it. Perhaps the perfect example of such a person is Nandita Das, who has always stayed away from the usual commercial films and instead done more socially relevant films. She has received much appreciation for her work both as an actor and director, so as a little birthday treat, we’re going to take a look at her top 5 best!

1. Fire

In this film, Nandita plays the role of Sita, a newly married woman who faces the trials and tribulations of living in a marriage where her husband simply does not care for her. It is one of the first mainstream films in India to speak about homosexuality openly, and is still considered to be among Nandita’s best.

2. Earth

Earth is the second film in Deepa Mehta‘s Elements trilogy (Fire is the first). Nandita Das plays Shanta, the Ayah of a young girl with polio. The film explores romance between a Hindu and a Muslim, as well as issues surrounding the partition.

3. Bawandar

In Bawandar, Nandita plays the role of Bhanwari Dewi, a rape victim from Rajasthan. The film – which is based on a true story – depicts the trauma, humiliation, and injustice Bhanwari Dewi had to go through as she pursued justice in the courts.

4. Before The Rains

Nandita plays the role of Sajani, a maid who has an affair with her British boss, in this film which tells a story of infidelity, interracial love and political turmoil all rolled into one. Not to mention, the cinematography is amazing!

5. Firaaq

Firaaq is Nandita’s directorial debut, and one she received many accolades for. It follows the lives of several regular people who were in some way involved in or affected by the 2002 violence in Gujarat and how their lives changed after it. The film received many awards internationally and in India, including a Filmfare Critics Award for Best Movie.