Nandita Das is known for her performances in Fire and Earth both directed by Deepa Mehta, Bawander by Jagmohan Mundhra and Amar Bhuvan by Mrinal Sen. She has performed in over 25 features. She won the Best Actress award for her performance film Bawander at the Santa Monica Film Festival (2001). She also won the Best Actress award for her 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. The passion and dedication come from her background as a social activist for Human Rights. She holds a Masters degree in social work and was first a member of a street theatre group and thereafter worked with various NGOs. She started into direction with four short films for Civil Society Organizations. Nandita's been a featured speaker at various universities and social forums, both in India and abroad. She's the daughter of noted painter-father Jatin Das and writer-mother Varsha Das.