Nandita Das calls for change

A woman who wears many hats, Nandita Das has been closely associated with the movement against gender discrimination, and has always been vocal about the issue. No matter which route she takes in terms of her multiple talents, her conviction for the cause comes through in almost every project she undertakes. The same could be said about her debut play as a theater director, Between the Lines, that recieved an overwhelming response across the country.

“There are issues that are sadly timeless and need to be addressed at all times. Gender inequality is surely one of them and it exists in different forms, across class. There is nothing more fascinating to me than human relationships, and Between the Lines peels layer by layer, what is said, and what remains unsaid, in a couple’s relationship. Contrary to common perception, gender inequality is more subtle and deceptive. The play intends to raise many questions, answering a few, and hopes to leave the audience with many lingering thoughts,” shares Nandita.

The play presented by Oxfam India and Chhoti productions will see Nandita sharing the stage with her husband Subodh Maskara. Interestingly, they also share the screen in her upcoming Spanish film Traces of Sandalwood, directed by Maria Ripoll. The film has an all-women crew and Nandita will be seen doing a Bollywood dance for the first time.

Nandita will also be seen in the “conceptual remake” of the film Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyun Aata Hai where she plays the lead along with Saurabh Shukla. Apart from that, she is also looking forward to another directorial feature film project. “I have an idea, and I am trying to empty my calendar so I can start focussing on it. I hope to begin work on the script soon. My advocacy work, speaking engagements and my monthly column continue, so plate is still quite full.”