Sony TV's signature crime drama CID bid farewell to its legendary character, ACP Pradyuman. Portrayed by the seasoned actor Shivaji Satam, the stern yet beloved officer was not just a character—he was a phenomenon. Revered for his sharp gaze, commanding presence, and the unforgettable line ‘Daya, darwaza tod do,’ he remained the heart of the show. Let’s revisit the legacy that redefined investigative drama.
ACP Pradyuman’s Final Case
It was the 31st episode of Season 2, aptly titled ‘The End of The Watch,’ and aired on Saturday, April 5, 2025. The episode revolved around the CID team's attempt to apprehend the elusive criminal Barboza, portrayed by Tigmanshu Dhulia. In a dramatic twist, Barboza ensnared the formidable ACP in a fatal trap, culminating in a powerful explosion. Though the blast left no visible trace of Pradyuman’s body, the implication of death hung heavy in the air. It fuelled widespread speculation among the die-hard fans about a possible return.
However, Sony TV, the maker of the show, later put all rumours to rest with an official announcement on social media. It confirmed that the beloved character’s journey had indeed reached its end. The decision was reportedly aligned with actor Shivaji Satam’s wish to take a step back.
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Tracing the Footsteps of CID and Its Iron-Willed Hero
Launched in 1998, CID swiftly carved its name into Indian television history as the longest-running crime investigation drama. Created by B. P. Singh, the show was more than a whodunit. With gripping plots, dramatic interrogations, and an ensemble cast of detectives, it built a loyal viewership that spanned generations.
Alongside the stalwart Pradyuman, the iconic CID team includes Daya (Dayanand Shetty), Abhijeet (Aditya Srivastava), Freddy (Dinesh Phadnis), and Dr. R. P. Salunkhe (Narendra Gupta).
The golden era of CID, roughly between 2002 and 2012, witnessed Satam’s commanding presence shaping the series’ identity. His piercing eyes, abrupt turns, and trademark catchphrases brought not just authority but an emotional weight to every case. His ability to switch from steely resolve to profound empathy made the character deeply human, yet larger than life. It was through this role that CID found its moral compass-—an unshakeable pillar of justice in a world mired in crime and deception.
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It perfectly echoed the sentiment of the devoted fan who responded to Sony's social media post with poignant words: “It’s not RIP to ACP Pradyuman. It’s RIP to CID”. A sentiment that echoed the end of an era, where the show’s spirit seemed inseparable from its iconic leader.
The Man Behind the Legend
A veteran actor with decades of experience, Shivaji Satam became the face of one of Indian television's most iconic characters. His portrayal of the unwavering, sharp-witted officer was a masterclass in acting, capturing the hearts of millions. With his commanding voice, piercing gaze, and impeccable timing, Satam became synonymous with Pradyuman.
For his exceptional performance, Satam was honoured with the Best Actor award at the Indian Telly Awards in 2002 and 2003, as well as the Gold Award in 2012.
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