India, Sept. 21 -- Who is the Indian actress who was on the verge of becoming our first global star, ran a production house, discovered some of the best known talent of the time (think thespian Dilip Kumar, beauteous Madhubala and the unparalleled Nargis) and was called the first lady of Indian cinema? Devika Rani was more than that. She was also the first woman actor who came from what could be termed as an elite family, lived her personal life on her terms and once she gave up the arc lights, never turned back dedicating herself to art and culture. With a life that was as varied and eventful as hers, it's indeed a surprise that her bio file has not been recreated on screen or stage. Until now.

It took another powerhouse performer, Lill...