One of the most popular and longest running shows on television, CID is an example of how eyeballs don't shift when they get sustained quality. Director B.P. Singh says that there are people who watched the series during their growing up years and are now watching it with their children. Despite numerous family soaps and reality shows, CID still maintains a loyal audience on Sony Entertainment Television.
The team was recently in Delhi to shoot an episode in Chandni Chowk. Veteran actor Shivaji Satam who plays the lead described the experience as overwhelming. “I love Old Delhi as much as I love Old Mumbai. We shot in the most difficult locations. Chandni Chowk is a very special place. People here are very supportive and affectionate. ”
It is surprising that the team has worked together for the last 12 years and there have been no disputes. “There is a leadership hierarchy among guys but no gossiping,” said Singh.
Talking about team unity and camaraderie, Dinesh Phadnis, who plays Fredericks, said, “We are always cracking jokes on sets. We share our personal problems as well. Though we work with such a senior artist like Shivaji Satam, there are no ego problems.”
Talking about the world record for canning an entire episode of CID, “The Inheritance” in one single shot of 111 minutes without a single cut, Singh said, “We shot that episode only in seven days. It was team work and support of crew members.”
“We are now planning on breaking our own record and shooting a non-stop episode of 150 minutes. It's a difficult task, but the team is determined and dedicated,” Satam added. Earlier the show was focused more on crime solving and had a serious theme. But now there are elements of fun and romance as well. “This is for relaxation to cut down the tense tone. I enjoy my comic role,” said Phadnis. In CID team, the male cast largely remains the same but female characters keep changing. Talking about the reason Jasveer Kaur (Kajal) said, “Some girls had personal problems and some left because they were getting other offers. For me it's a dream come true. When I was in 8th standard, I used to watch this show and I craved to be a part of it. I learnt a lot about acting on this show.”
