Nandita Das in IWF's International Hall of Fame

For portraying the plight of voiceless women authentically through cinema, critically acclaimed actress-director Nandita Das has become the first Indian to have been inducted into the Hall of Fame by the International Women's Forum (IWF).

Known as the 'thinking man's actress', the 41-year-old was admitted to the elite group at Washington DC's historic National Building Museum last night, a release said here.

She was chosen by a selection committee representing women leaders across five continents "for her sustained contributions to the arts and to the world as one of the most gripping cinema arts leaders of our time who has shown us what both-feet-on-the-floor authenticity looks like and how keeping your values in focus and applying your talent can fuel women and the world forward".

IWF recognises leading global women game-changer women by inducting them into the International Hall of Fame, which acts as a platform for them to connect with the world's most preeminent women of significant and diverse achievements.

Wearing many hats, including that of the chairperson of the Children's Film Society of India, Das has never shied away from controversial issues and unconventional roles.

Considered one of the most sensitive actresses around, she is best known for her performances in films like 'Fire', 'Earth', 'Bawander'.

"I have only done what comes naturally to me but I feel a deep sense of gratitude that my choices are being validated by none other than the discerning women, from around the world. I see it as an encouragement to continue the work I do," the actress said after receiving the honour.

With her directorial debut, 'Firaaq' (2008), Das brought out poignant and evocative stories of the 2002 religious riots in Gujarat and won a number of awards, including a Filmfare.

An advocate of issues of social justice and human rights, she has served as the main jury at the Cannes Film Festival in 2005 and was also bestowed the award of Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters by the French government.