Sony TV’s much-loved crime investigation show CID, known for its chilling cases and non-winkable characters, returns on screens to spate waves among its hardcore fan base. When the show, which has completed over two decades on Indian television, went off air on October 31, 2018, it was serving a perfect 20 years for the makers.
Beloved crime show CID to make a comeback on television
CID is a household name in Indian television as this suspenseful camaraderie-oriented show found a special place in hearts of people across various age groups.
CID is set to return with some of its popular characters, which had gained popularity for their respective individualities, dialogues, and expertise in investigation. Let’s take a look at some members of the team whose mannerisms and dialogues left indelible marks on the viewers.
ACP Pradyuman – The Intuitive Leader
The role of ACP Pradyuman, played by veteran Marathi actor Shivaji Satam, was pivotal to the success of the show. Known for his sharp instincts and unique style, he led the CID team with zeal.
His trademark gestures and lines such as “Kuch toh gadbad hai” (something is amiss) and “Pata lagao” (find out) resonated with the audiences of the time and became very popular as they symbolized his brilliant detective instincts. Wearing his classic three-piece suit, ACP Pradyuman, intuitive and full of experience, was an archetypal figure in Indian television with the winning of the hearts of the audience by the victorious techniques used in crime slaying.
Senior Inspector Abhijeet – The Calm Strategist
Senior Inspector Abhijeet, portrayed by Aditya Srivastava, gained one of the finest favorites due to his rational way of thinking and loyalty to ACP Pradyuman. Known for calmness and expertise in situations, Abhijeet’s sharp intelligence and loyalty to his team played a major role in solving cases.
His friendship and familiarity with Senior Inspector Daya just added depth to the character of his persona, and those flirtations and lighthearted romance with Dr. Tarika, a forensic scientist, added an extra subplot to the series. Abhijeet’s clarity of thought in trying moments and his bond with the team made him a favourite with the audience.
Senior Inspector Daya – The Mighty, Silent Guardian
Senior Inspector Daya, portrayed by Dayanand Shetty, was very memorable for his impressive strength and breaking doors with a single kick. This was a man of few words, yet his loyalty and commitment to work made him an integral part of the CID team.
Though scaring for most people, his warmth toward his colleagues and his stick-to-what-he-really-believes-in zeal made him quite an endearing character. The bond between Abhijeet and Daya, his trusted friend and partner, was one of the highlights of the show. It reflected the strong sense of teamwork that CID was known for.
Dr. Salunkhe: The Wizard in Your Genes
The forensic wizard, Dr. Salunkhe, played by Narendra Gupta, was of immense value to the team. He helped crack the cases using his scientific acumen. Comedian and a wit, there were moments where sarcasm slipped through; the friendly yet competitive relationship that portrayed Dr. Salunkhe with ACP Pradyuman brought the humorous side to investigations that otherwise were quite intense. His rapport with the team, especially his witty banter with Fredricks, lightened up the series, and the audiences loved watching him.
Inspector Fredricks – The Scenic Comic Relief with Dedication
Inspector Fredricks or, to everyone’s dismay, Freddy, was played by the late Dinesh Phadnis, who passed away earlier this year. The lovable, bumbling nature of Freddy could always be relied upon for comic relief to balance out the darker moments of the series. But though Fredricks was known for his comedic talents as an officer, he never failed to take his investigations seriously as a member of the CID team. From being able to lighten up Dr. Salunkhe’s mood with their banter to being the friendly, rough-and-tumble ‘uncle’ of the junior team members, such as Pankaj, Freddy certainly had his fans.
Sub-Insp Shreya – The Bravest Female Presence in CID
With Janvi Chedda in the role of Sub-Inspector Shreya, who joins the CID team by bringing courage as a young officer with a great sense of justice. The otherwise only male team gets a much-needed female element with bravery and commitment through Shreya. Shreya’s character was appreciated by people for high moral principles and commitment to law; it brought refreshing touch to the dynamics of the team.
Sub-Inspector Pankaj – The Faithful Junior Officer
Ajay Nagrath debuted in 2012 as Sub-Inspector Pankaj, that energetic and jovial fellow. Inspector Fredricks’s fanboy. He did not take much time to integrate into the CID family since he had the cheerful nature along with dedication for his work that let him settle into the existing team.
Dr. Tarika – The Brilliant Forensic Assistant
The supporting casts included Dr. Tarika played by Shraddha Musale, assistant to the forensic team under the guidance of Dr. Salunkhe. She is also known for her gentle flirting with Abhijeet but still left a dollop of romance to this show. Although their relationship didn’t go beyond jocular conversations, their chemistry made one of the most loved parts of CID.
A Reunion Fans Want
With the likely comeback of CID, fans are anxiously waiting to see these darling characters back in action once again. Featuring its signature mix of suspense, humor, and memorable personas, CID remains one of Indian television’s longest-running crime dramas. Many will remember the return of this hit show as bringing back nostalgic memories, while for a new set of them, it will be an introduction to a world of thrills associated with CID.
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