In the late 1990s, India witnessed a revolution in its television programming, especially in the crime genre, with one show that would leave an indelible mark on the country’s pop culture:
CID. The popular detective series ran from 1998 to 2018, making it one of the longest-running shows in the history of Indian television. To this day, certain iconic lines from the series, such as “Daya, darwaaza tod do” (Daya, break down the door), are instantly recognizable to anyone who grew up watching it. But now, after a long hiatus, CID is making a comeback, sparking a wave of nostalgia and mixed reactions among its fans.
CID: A Show That Defined Crime Drama in India
At its peak, CID was the face of the Indian crime genre. The series revolved around three intrepid detectives — ACP Pradyuman, played by Shivaji Satam, Inspector Daya (Dayanand Shetty), and Inspector Abhijeet (Aditya Srivastava). Together, they solved a variety of bizarre and thrilling criminal cases. Despite the show’s comically simple plots, somewhat unrefined acting, and low-budget production values, it captured the hearts of millions across India.
What made CID stand out was its ability to create an engaging crime-solving atmosphere without resorting to graphic violence or adult content. This family-friendly approach made it a show that was widely watched by audiences of all ages, including children. The most iconic aspect of the show was perhaps the relationship between its characters, especially the dynamic between ACP Pradyuman and his loyal team members.
Over the years, CID became a cult phenomenon. The characters, catchphrases, and certain over-the-top moments—such as Inspector Daya dramatically breaking down doors and ACP Pradyuman’s recurring line, “Kuch toh gadbad hai, Daya” (Something’s not right, Daya)—became etched in popular memory, often referenced in memes and internet jokes. These elements of the show have helped it maintain its cult status, even as the world of television evolved.
The Comeback: CID Returns to the Screen
As 2024 approaches, CID is making an exciting comeback. The creators of the show have begun releasing teasers for the upcoming episodes, which have quickly gone viral on social media platforms like Instagram. The teasers, which feature the original trio of detectives and their iconic lines, have garnered hundreds of thousands of likes and comments, evoking strong emotions from fans. For many, it’s a nostalgic return to their childhoods, while for others, the revival raises questions about how the show will adapt to the gritty realism of modern-day crime dramas.
The new CID series, while tapping into the legacy of the original, is also expected to face challenges in maintaining the same charm that made it so beloved. In a landscape where darker, more realistic crime dramas dominate, the relatively light-hearted and formulaic nature of CID may feel out of place for modern viewers. Nonetheless, the anticipation surrounding its return is palpable, especially among those who grew up watching it.
Nostalgia and Memories: A Fan’s Perspective
For many fans, the return of CID brings back fond memories of simpler times. Trisha Shah, a 35-year-old content creator from Mumbai, recalls how the show was a staple of her childhood. “CID was one of the few crime shows on television back then, and my parents didn’t mind me watching it because of its family-friendly content,” says Shah. “Despite being a crime show, it never showed gruesome violence, sexual crimes, or anything inappropriate. It was safe for children, yet thrilling enough to keep adults hooked.”
One of the writers of the original show once mentioned in an interview that they intentionally avoided giving surnames to the characters to avoid any potential controversy or offense. This attention to detail in making the show universally acceptable was a key factor in its mass appeal.
But what truly set CID apart were its outlandish plots. From ACP Pradyuman’s miraculous returns from the dead to Inspector Daya heroically saving the day in ridiculous scenarios, such as maneuvering a plane filled with poison gas, the show often strayed into the realm of “believable nonsense.” Despite this, viewers found themselves engrossed in the drama. As BP Singh, the producer of the show, once put it in an interview with Forbes, “You may later laugh at it, but for those five minutes, it is so engrossing that you don’t mind it.”
A Show Ahead of Its Time
The 1990s were a unique time for Indian television. With the easing of broadcasting rights, India saw an influx of new channels, and shows like CID began to push the boundaries of entertainment. Initially, international shows like Baywatch and The Bold and The Beautiful were being aired in India, but soon enough, Indian broadcasters began creating original content tailored to local tastes. Channels like Zee TV and Sony TV became pioneers in producing shows that catered specifically to Indian audiences.
CID was one of the first of its kind, modeled after Western crime dramas such as CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. However, it quickly adapted to the unique tastes and sensibilities of the Indian viewer, offering a more simplified, almost family-friendly approach to crime-solving. This blend of Western influence and local flavor contributed to its popularity, making it a television phenomenon that helped establish the genre of crime dramas in India.
Television’s Changing Landscape: From Family Shows to Crime Dramas
In the 1990s, television became a central part of daily life for many families in India. TV was the primary form of entertainment, and with rising disposable incomes, many households had multiple sets. The introduction of cable TV and satellite channels further expanded the entertainment options available. It was during this time that CID, with its thrilling storylines and easily digestible format, became a must-watch show.
Not only did CID contribute to the growing popularity of crime shows in India, but it also paved the way for other similar series like Crime Patrol and Savdhaan India. However, CID was unique in its approach. While other crime shows focused on more adult themes, CID remained steadfastly family-friendly, making it accessible to a wide range of audiences.
Priya Ravi, 40, recalls how CID shaped her childhood television experience. “I used to wait eagerly for each episode of CID when I was a kid,” she says. “It was such a big deal at the time that I convinced my parents to buy a TV just so I could watch the show.”
Now, as a mother of two, Priya sees the potential for the new CID to engage her own children. “If the show remains as clean as it was back then, I think it’s a great way to introduce children to some of the realities of life and teach them to stay aware of their surroundings.”
The Future of CID: A Timeless Classic or a Relic of the Past?
As CID returns to television screens, there’s a sense of excitement and nostalgia that surrounds the show. For many fans, it represents an era of simpler, more innocent television. However, it also raises the question of whether the same formula that made it so beloved in the past will resonate with today’s viewers, who are accustomed to edgier, more realistic crime shows.
Regardless of how the new episodes are received, CID’s legacy as a pioneering show in the Indian television industry is undeniable. It was a trailblazer in many ways, from its family-friendly approach to crime to its ability to create a lasting cultural impact. Whether it’s remembered as a classic or seen as a relic of the past, CID will always hold a special place in the hearts of its fans
