Actor Shefali Shah has spent years bringing complex characters to life on screen, but stepping into the world of writing has presented a different kind of challenge. The actor, who recently released her debut book, The Audacity of Being: A Sort-of Memoir, has admitted that putting her writing out for readers is more frightening than releasing a film.
In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, Shefali spoke about the uncertainty surrounding her first book, explaining how the responsibility feels different from that of a film project. Published by Bloomsbury on October 1, 2026, The Audacity of Being offers readers a glimpse into the actor's thoughts and experiences through a format she describes as a “sort-of memoir”.
When asked whether a film release or a book release was more frightening, Shefali chose the latter without hesitation. “Book. This is going to be my sole responsibility. It's scary. There is no producer, director. There is nobody else who's going to take responsibility for this book. And it's my first,” she said.
The actor also acknowledged that writing is unfamiliar territory for her, unlike acting, which has been a significant part of her professional life. “And this is not what I have worked on or excelled. This is not the line. You know, I'm not an author. Until now, at least,” she added.
Shefali explained that readers' responses would ultimately shape how she viewed herself in this new role. “It will only be decided whether I am or no after people read it and they have a reaction to it. And so definitely this,” she said, reiterating that releasing a book feels more daunting than releasing a film.
Shefali Shah promises a fun read with her debut book
While Shefali is candid about the nerves that come with publishing her first book, she also wants readers to approach it with a sense of curiosity and enjoyment. Asked what she would like to tell people considering picking up the book or visiting a bookstore to find it, the actor offered a simple description of what they can expect.
“It's about something and nothing and everything that's in between. But I can promise you it's fun,” she said.
The conversation also revealed a lighter side of Shefali, as she spoke about how much a good hair day can influence her confidence. “If my hair is done, I can't tell you my level of confidence,” she said, explaining that her hair often has a mind of its own. “I mean, as I've described, my hair really has a mind of its own. It does its own number every time,” the actor added.
For Shefali, having her hair styled can make a difference to how she feels, regardless of what she is wearing or whether she has put on makeup. “So when my hair is done, I'm like, I have arrived. I don't care whether I'm wearing pyjamas. I put makeup, not put makeup, doesn't matter. So that really makes a difference,” she said.
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