Return of the Iconic CID: 90s Crime Drama Revived

The reimagining of CID sparks varied reactions among fans, encapsulating both excitement and skepticism for its revival.

As the iconic crime drama CID prepares to make its grand return, nostalgia washes over audiences who remember its original airing from 1998 to 2018. This beloved series, which featured three fearless policemen—ACP Pradyuman, Inspector Daya, and Inspector Abhijeet—crafted low-budget yet captivating stories where no criminal could escape justice. The show became a cultural phenomenon, immortalizing catchphrases like “Daya, darwaaza tod do” (Daya, break down the door), and transforming its characters into evergreen icons.

While CID faced criticism for its comically simplified plots and unrefined acting, over the years, it garnered a cult following. The revival, scheduled for later this month, generates mixed feelings—while many fans eagerly anticipate the trio’s return to the screen, others are concerned that the charm of the 90s may not resonate in the context of today's darker, more realistic crime dramas.

In anticipation of its relaunch, teasers posted on social media have rapidly amassed likes and comments from devoted fans. These promotional snippets strategically revive familiar tropes: Daya smashing through doors and Pradyuman’s signature line, “Kuch toh gadbad hai, Daya” (Something’s not right, Daya), skillfully signaling the unraveling mystery.

Among the loyal fans, 35-year-old Trisha Shah from Mumbai fondly recalls the family-friendly nature of the show. “Unlike other crime series, CID never showcased excessive violence or unsuitable content,” she notes. This view echoes the intent behind the show’s writing—steering clear of character surnames to avoid offending viewers.

Despite its outlandish scenarios, like Pradyuman's improbable resurrection and Daya commandeering a gas-filled plane, the show thrived on the absurdity that enchanted its youthful audience. The show’s producer, BP Singh, humorously referred to its fantastical elements as “believable nonsense,” maintaining that the engrossing storytelling held viewers’ attention despite potential laughter at its misadventures.

As television became a cornerstone of home entertainment in the 90s, CID emerged during a transformative period for Indian broadcasting. More channels began broadcasting original content, with CID drawing inspiration from popular Western shows like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. Media expert Harsh Taneja explains that this adaptation set a precedent for subsequent crime dramas on Indian television.

Interestingly, CID was originally targeted at children aged six to fourteen. It paved the way for other crime-focused series such as Crime Patrol and Savadhan India, shaping viewers’ appetites for detective stories.

For 40-year-old Priya Ravi, CID was a staple of her childhood. She reminisces about eagerly awaiting each episode and convincing her parents to purchase a television set to indulge in her favorite show. Although she expresses hesitation about watching the upcoming episodes, she intends to introduce her children—ages seven and nine—to the series, confident that its wholesome content will serve as valuable lessons in safety and vigilance.

“The heroic trio's comeback is something I'm looking forward to,” she concludes, echoing the sentiments of many who regard CID not just as a show, but as a treasured part of their childhood.