‘I still doubt myself’: Shefali Shah on impostor feelings before Delhi Crime Season 3

Shefali Shah, known for her layered, emotive performances across film and streaming, has candidly described an ongoing struggle with impostor syndrome. As she prepares to reprise DIG Vartika Chaturvedi in the new season of Delhi Crime, Shah admits that waves of self-doubt accompany her into the role.

Reflecting on the sensation that success can feel accidental, the actor — who has received accolades including the Best Actress prize at the Asian Academy Creative Awards — said, "Often it feels like a fluke. When the director says action, I sometimes freeze, as if he were speaking in French."

Shah emphasised that this unease is not limited to Vartika. "It’s not only about this character; I get frightened before most projects, and that fear fuels me. After a job I might think I’ve done it once, but I’m never sure I truly ‘know’ the craft," she explained, adding that that very uncertainty keeps her instincts sharp.

Her method, she noted, leans on spontaneity and feeling rather than rigid technique. "I work from the heart — it’s instinctive. I do use my mind, but there’s no manual to becoming Vartika or to a scene. If I ever feel I’ve fully figured it out, that’s when I should stop," Shah said.

The forthcoming season of Delhi Crime introduces a new antagonist portrayed by Huma Qureshi, who headlines a human trafficking operation. Returning ensemble members include Rasika Dugal, Rajesh Tailang, Sayani Gupta, Mita Vashisht and others. Directed by Tanuj Chopra, Season 3 is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on November 13.