The beloved Indian crime drama CID, which originally aired from 1998 to 2018, is making a much-anticipated comeback, stirring a wave of nostalgia among fans. Iconic lines like "Daya, darwaaza tod do" (Daya, break down the door) are etched in the memories of many, making the show a significant part of Indian television history. Featuring persistent policemen—ACP Pradyuman, Inspector Daya, and Inspector Abhijeet—the series depicted their relentless efforts to solve cases, often with comically straightforward narratives and sometimes dubious acting.
Despite its low budget and simple plots, CID has garnered a devoted following, becoming a cult phenomenon that inspired jokes, memes, and re-creations online. The comeback has received mixed responses; while many are eager to see the trio's familiar antics, others speculate that the traditional style may clash with today's more realistic crime storytelling.
Leading up to the show's return, the creators have been releasing tantalizing teasers across social media, sparking excitement among users. Showcasing signature moves and phrases, the teasers promise a revival of the series' trademark humor and drama, like Inspector Daya’s door-smashing entrances and ACP Pradyuman's catchphrase, 'kuch toh gadbad hai, Daya' (something's not right, Daya).
Fans like Trisha Shah, a 35-year-old content creator from Mumbai, expressed delight at the teasers, reminiscing about how CID was one of the few crime shows approved for family viewing. Shah appreciates that the series maintained a clean narrative, devoid of graphic violence or inappropriate content. Interestingly, the show's writers even slowed character development by omitting last names to avoid offending specific social groups.
In conversations with media outlets, the show's producer, BP Singh, described its outrageous plots as “believable nonsense,” underscoring their ability to captivate audiences, even if sometimes absurd. The characters’ amusing explanations of investigative techniques made the series educational for children, with Shah noting, “The bad guys always got caught,” a comforting detail that appealed to younger viewers.
The significance of CID goes beyond entertainment; it recalls a pivotal era of Indian television in the 1990s, when new broadcasting rights unleashed a variety of channels. Productions increasingly tailored content to Indian viewers, mixing adaptations of Western shows like CSI with local cultural themes.
For many, such as Priya Ravi, now 40, CID was integral to childhood, pushing her to advocate for a television at home to catch each episode—a testament to the show's ability to create an appetite for crime dramas. She now looks forward to introducing the new CID episodes to her own children. If the show keeps its wholesome tone, she believes it's a valuable means of teaching kids about safety and vigilance in the world around them. With keen anticipation, fans await the heroic trio’s return to the screen.
