The acclaimed Netflix series Delhi Crime returns with its third season on November 13, and this time, the universe expands with a powerful new addition Huma Qureshi, who steps into the world of the show as Badi Didi, a complex, darkly layered character that promises to shake things up.
At the trailer launch, Huma couldn’t contain her excitement about joining the series she’s long admired. “I’m such a huge fan of Delhi Crime Seasons 1 and 2,” she shared. “When I got the call to be part of Season 3, I felt like a kid who just got her favourite toy to play with. What Shefali and Rasika have done in this show is incredible. it’s an honour to be a part of this universe and to help take the story forward. I knew I had to bring my A-game, because all of these characters are so loved, and the audience has supported them season after season. It was so much fun. Everyone was so welcoming that it didn’t feel like I was the new member at all.”
While she’s known for her strong, nuanced performances, Huma revealed that this time she’s venturing into darker territory than ever before. “I think this is the darkest and most sinister character of my career and I say that in the best way possible. This is the best worst character I’ve ever played,” she admitted with a grin. “When you play someone dark, there are no restrictions. You can really let go and that’s what I did. Of course, it was challenging, because as a person and as an actor, I always try to make sure that whatever I do carries a woman’s perspective, a point of view. This character is deeply negative, and I did think hard about whether to do it or not.
But Delhi Crime is such an extraordinary show — it holds up a mirror to society. Sometimes, when you play a negative character and people still connect with it, it ends up highlighting the issue even more. If my performance brings even a little more awareness, I’ll consider that an honour.”
Qureshi’s addition marks a fresh dimension to the series, which has always balanced realism with emotional depth. Known for portraying morally complex characters with empathy, she says this role pushed her creatively and emotionally. “It’s the kind of role that shakes you up as an actor,” she said. “But that’s exactly what made it exciting.”
She also reflected on how Delhi Crime represents a global shift in storytelling. “The whole world is watching,” Huma said. “I’ve always believed the world is ready for very hyper-local Indian stories told with a global sensibility and that’s exactly what Tanuj [Chopra, the director] has done with this show. Delhi Crime has always shown India in a real and holistic way, and Season 3 takes that legacy forward. We’re calling it the most thrilling season yet. Wherever you are in the world, you’ll find something to connect with.”
With Delhi Crime 3, Huma Qureshi joins a powerhouse cast led by Shefali Shah and Rasika Dugal, bringing her own intensity to a show that continues to redefine Indian storytelling on the global stage.