There are some stories that are so important, they send shockwaves through the world when they’re told. Delhi Crime is one of them. An intrepid, sensitive retelling of the horrifying 2012 Delhi gang-rape, the show, helmed by director Richie Mehta, received global acclamation when it first came out. Adding to its list of laurels, Delhi Crime has just won the International Emmy award for Best Drama Series at the 48th ceremony of the show, held virtually on the 23rd of November.
A fictionalised true-crime drama, the series traces the case of the 23-year-old physiotherapy intern who was abducted and gang-raped in a moving bus on the night of December 16, 2012, before she was abandoned on a Delhi road – and tells it from the perspective of the Delhi Police team investigating the crime, with the eyes of the nation on them. With actor Shefali Shah portraying DCP Vartika Chaturvedi, based on former Delhi Police DCP Chaya Sharma who solved the case within 72 hours, the show examines the emotional toll faced by the victim’s family, along with the massive pressure the cops were under to find the perpetrators.
As a story that is more relevant than ever today, especially in light of the fact that violence against women increased under lockdown, Delhi Crime’s victory at the Emmy’s is not only a matter of pride but also serves as a reminder of the lived reality of women around the world. Director Richie Mehta’s acceptance speech also emphasised this; he dedicated the victory to all the women who don’t just endure the violence men inflict on them – but are also tasked to solve the problem. He also honoured the deceased victim and her family while receiving the award.
Actor Shefali Shah took to social media to express her excitement at winning the laurel, with an outpour of praise from celebrities and fellow co-stars alike.
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PS: If you haven’t already, you can watch Delhi Crime on Netflix. Watch the trailer for the gripping tale here:
Photographs: Instagram
