The Nostalgic Return of CID: A 90s Indian Crime Drama Comes Back

The return of CID has struck a chord with many viewers, igniting memories of simpler television times and highlighting the show's enduring impact on Indian crime drama.

The Indian crime drama series CID, which originally aired from 1998 to 2018, is set to relaunch later this month, stirring nostalgia among viewing audiences. The show featured the exploits of three dedicated policemen—ACP Pradyuman, Inspector Daya, and Inspector Abhijeet—as they tackled criminals with humor and vigor. The phrase "Daya, darwaaza tod do" (Daya, break down the door) has become embedded in popular culture, with many viewers instantly recalling this catchphrase.

Despite its low-budget production values and over-the-top storylines, CID garnered a dedicated fan base, which has since transformed it into a cultural phenomenon. The series was characterized by its simplistic plots and the often comedic manner in which justice was served. For instance, a suspect’s confession typically followed a forceful “talking-to” from ACP Pradyuman, highlighting the show's unique formula.

As the show prepares to return, audiences are reacting with mixed feelings. While some fans are excited to see the trio back in their classic crime-fighting roles, others worry that CID's quaint, old-fashioned storytelling may clash with the more intense crime narratives prevalent in today’s television landscape. The creators have been teasing the revival through social media, provoking excitement and nostalgia among fans.

Trisha Shah, a 35-year-old Mumbai-based content creator, highlights that the show’s family-friendly nature was one reason for its popularity in the 90s. "CID was one of the few crime shows at that time that my parents allowed me to watch without worry," she states, adding that the absence of graphic content made it suitable for all ages.

The show achieved such iconic status that its characters and lines have been repurposed into memes and jokes by fans. A discussion with BP Singh, the show's producer, proved insightful, as he described certain over-the-top scenes as “believable nonsense,” emphasizing their entertainment factor irrespective of their absurdity.

Even as the show was rooted in humorous storytelling, it played an educational role. It presented crime-solving concepts in a manner accessible to children, with clear explanations embedded within dialogues. The comfort of knowing the "bad guys" would be brought to justice resonated deeply with its viewers, as expressed by Ms. Shah.

When CID first aired, it emerged during a transformative period for Indian television, coinciding with an increase in broadcasting channels due to liberalization. This era saw an upsurge in original Indian content tailored to local audiences, with CID paving the way for other crime shows in subsequent years, such as Crime Patrol and Savadhan India.

Priya Ravi, a 40-year-old fan who watched the show as a child, recalls eagerly awaiting each new episode. She fondly remembers the day her family finally bought a television so she could watch CID at home. She also plans to introduce her young children to the revived series, believing it can teach valuable life lessons while maintaining the same family-friendly atmosphere.

As CID makes its comeback, audiences are hopeful for a blend of nostalgic charm and fresh storytelling that appeals to both long-time fans and new viewers.