ACP Pradyuman aka Shivaji Satam: Daya and Abhi are an extension of my family

Dayanand Shetty, Shivaji Satam and Aditya Srivastava

CID has become one of the longest running programmes on Indian TV. What do you think has kept the audience glued?
People are always interested in watching a mystery. The forensics is another aspect that makes them more engaged. We never reveal the name of the poisons on our show, lest they be misused. The writers consciously omit the surname of a criminal, to avoid associating the offender with any caste. A lot of thought goes into making this series. Plus, we make sure that the stories never get monotonous. Also, I think the show works because people look up to a person in uniform. I, too, wanted to become an air force pilot, but could not pursue it.

What is the most interesting part of the show for you?
I like the fact that all the characters are distinct from each other. ACP Pradyuman may have his idiosyncrasies, but he is loyal, blunt and principled. The relationship that the central characters share is something people hope for in real life.

Over the years, you must have forged a deep bond with Dayanand Shetty and Aditya Srivastava.
Daya [Shetty's character] and Abhi [Srivastava's character] are like my younger brothers. They are an extension of my family. Daya is as big-hearted as his built. He is a foodie and knows what all of us love to eat. Abhi may look serious, but is mischievous.

Has there been any case that has been memorable?
One of the cases revolved around my teenage son, who gets into bad company and ends up becoming a terrorist. My character had no option but to kill him. It was a six-episode long story and the drama was wonderfully built up.
In 2004, we had filmed an 111-minute-episode in a single shot from start to finish. It earned us a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Among all your iconic dialogues, which has been your favourite?
(Laughs) 'Daya, darwaza tod do' and 'Kuch toh gadbad hai' - these have become so popular that they sparked off several memes.

What's next for the show?
I honestly don't know. Sridhar Raghavan, who was originally the writer of the show, is now looking into its creative aspects. His mind is constantly on the roll. I'm sure he has something interesting up his sleeve.

Lastly, you've played the ACP for 20 years. So, when do you get a promotion?
(Laughs) If I get a promotion, I will be stuck behind a desk, which is not something my character would want.

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