The Legacy That Inspired WAIFC
One of India's greatest screen legends was born in Perth in 1908, and by the 1930s was a star across the subcontinent. Discover how her remarkable journey inspired a new era of creative collaboration between Western Australia and India.
The Beginning
A Story That Began in Western Australia
Few Western Australians realise that one of India's greatest screen legends was born in Perth.
Born in Western Australia as Mary Ann Evans, Fearless Nadia left Australia with her family while still a young child. Her extraordinary journey would eventually lead her to India, where she became one of the most influential pioneers in the history of Indian cinema.
Renowned for her courage, athleticism and groundbreaking performances throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Fearless Nadia redefined what audiences believed a woman could achieve on screen. Her fearless spirit inspired generations of filmmakers, performers and audiences, earning her a permanent place in cinema history.
Although her career unfolded in India, her story began in Western Australia.
Nearly a century later, that remarkable connection continues to inspire the West Australian Indian Film Council (WAIFC).
Why It Matters
More Than a Remarkable Story
For WAIFC, Fearless Nadia’s legacy is more than a fascinating chapter in cinema history.
It represents one of the earliest known creativeand cultural connections between Western Australia and India.
That connection reminds us that collaboration between our regions is not a new idea. It has deep historical roots.
Inspired by this shared heritage, WAIFC was established to transform history into opportunity by strengthening collaboration across screen production, performing arts, education, creativetechnology, investment, tourism and cultural exchange.
Rather than simply celebrating the past, WAIFC isfocused on creating the next generation of creative partnerships.
Cultural Ambassador
A Living Legacy
History becomes most meaningful when it continues through people.
WAIFC is honoured that internationally acclaimed choreographer and performing arts visionary Shiamak Davar serves as the Council's Cultural Ambassador.
As Fearless Nadia's grand-nephew through the Wadia family, Shiamak represents a unique living connection between one of Indian cinema's greatest pioneers and today's creative industries.
He has often spoken about the encouragement and inspiration Fearless Nadia gave him during his formative years — guidance that helped shape the artistic journey which would establish him as one of India's most respected choreographers and performing arts educators.
His involvement with WAIFC is therefore far more than an ambassadorial appointment.
It symbolises the continuation of a remarkable legacy that began in Perth almost one hundred years ago and now inspires future generations of artists, performers and storytellers across Australia and India.
"Mary Ann taught me that creativity has no borders. To see her story inspiring a new chapter of collaboration between Western Australia and India through WAIFC is deeply meaningful to me. I am honoured to continue that legacy."
Origins
Why WAIFC Was Created
Nearly one hundred years after Fearless Nadia's story began in Perth, WAIFC Founder Director and Deputy Chair Nilesh Makwana recognised an opportunity to build upon this extraordinary historical connection.
Together with the WAIFC Board of Directors, Strategic Advisory Boards, Industry Advisory Council, First Nations leaders, Cultural Ambassador and partners across Australia and India, the Council was established to create meaningful connections between governments, universities, screen agencies, creative businesses, investors, artists and communities.
WAIFC exists to connect people, create opportunities and strengthen long-term relationships between Western Australia and India's diverse creative industries.
Its guiding belief is simple: History should inspire the future.
Relevance
Why This Matters Today
India is home to one of the world's largest and fastest-growing creative economies.
Western Australia offers world-class filming locations, internationally recognised creative talent, leading universities, First Nations storytelling, innovation and a gateway to the Indo-Pacific.
By bringing these strengths together, WAIFC seeks to create lasting benefits for both regions.
Looking Forward
The Next Chapter
Fearless Nadia's story reminds us that extraordinary journeys often begin in unexpected places.
Today, WAIFC is building upon that remarkable history by creating new opportunities across India's many languages, cultures and creative industries.
Working alongside governments, industry leaders, educators, artists and communities, the Council is helping shape a future built on collaboration, creativity and mutual respect.
The relationship between Western Australia and India did not begin with WAIFC.
WAIFC exists to ensure that it continues to grow.
Legacy Timeline
Nearly a Century of Connection
"Nearly one hundred years ago, the story of one of India's greatest screen pioneers began in Perth. Today, inspired by that remarkable history, WAIFC is helping write the next chapter of creative collaboration between Western Australia and India."
The story began in Western Australia.
The next chapter belongs to all of us.
