Can progressive art drive large scale social change in India? Nandita Das, one of India's revolutionary film and theatre actresses as well as human rights activist, seeks to answer this question. She explores the what, why and how of this idea by reflecting on her unique life experience and exploring the impact of past artwork such as her film "Fire" - the first of it's kind in India to showcase a same-sex relationship. An internationally acclaimed actress, Nandita Das has featured in more than 50 films in 10 different languages. She is the recipient of more than 20 awards, and has served on the jury of Cannes Film Festival twice. She is also the first Indian to be inducted into the Hall Of Fame of the International Women's Forum.

Nandita is also an advocate for social justice and human rights, having worked extensively for children's rights, HIV/AIDS awareness, and women's safety. She has served as the Chairperson of the Children's Film Society of India and is a World Fellow anointed by Yale University. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx