When CID's Shivaji Satam aka ACP Pradyuman got emotional recalling his late wife's memories: She is not there in this world to see my success

CID fame Shivaji Satam with wife Aruna Satam

The iconic line “Kuch Toh Gadbad Hai, Daya” doesn’t just remind fans of a crime-solving TV show—it brings to life the unforgettable face of ACP Pradyuman, played by veteran actor Shivaji Satam. A name etched in the hearts of millions, Satam became so immersed in the role that people often mistook him for a real-life CID officer. While the role brought him national fame, his journey to that recognition was filled with humble beginnings and heart-wrenching personal trials.

Born on April 21, 1950, in a crowded chawl in Maharashtra, Shivaji grew up among 15 family members. His father, a mill labourer, instilled in him the importance of education. “My father, though a labourer, made extraordinary sacrifices for my education. He admitted me in an English school and boarding school by teaching English to other children after hours. Recognising English's growing importance, he even taught himself the language. Our Sundays were dedicated to reading English newspapers aloud – a testament to his forward-thinking vision,” Shivaji shared.

His foray into acting was unplanned. A casual push onto a stage during a local Ganpati festival turned into the first spark of what would become a lifelong passion. That small role lit the fire in him, and soon, he found himself involved more deeply in theatre.

"My breakthrough came unexpectedly when Bal Dhuri offered me a replacement role in his play. Though hesitant at first, friends encouraged me to accept. Despite stage fright facing a packed audience, I managed to deliver my performance. That moment marked the beginning of my unstoppable journey in acting," he recalled.

Though theatre brought joy, it didn’t bring financial stability. “I used to be paid only ₹20-30 per show,” Shivaji said, reflecting on the difficult times. It was his dedication to the stage that led to a unique opportunity at the Central Bank of India, thanks to a special initiative by the Maharashtra government. "My theater experience led to an unexpected opportunity at Central Bank of India,” he said. This job gave him some financial footing, even as he continued acting.

His entry into films started with Marathi cinema, eventually leading to his first Hindi film in 1988—Pestonjee. “Got 500 rupees for first Hindi film,” he said. “This film had important roles by Anupam Kher, Naseeruddin Shah and Shabana Azmi. I got this film through Vijaya Mehta, the screenplay writer.”

However, it was television that truly immortalized him. When the producers saw him perform, they knew he was the right fit for CID, a show that would run for over two decades. The show created history in 2006 by filming a 111-minute episode in one continuous take—a feat that earned a place in both the Guinness and Limca Book of World Records. “It took 6 days of rehearsal for this,” Shivaji noted proudly.

The show's impact was so deep that even legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar was an ardent fan. “Lata ji was also sad when CID ended. She really liked our show. She knew everyone who worked in CID by both face and name. She would often invite us over for meals,” he shared with affection.

While his professional life was filled with accolades and accomplishments, his personal life bore a sorrow that never left him. His wife, a steadfast supporter, passed away at a young age due to cancer. “I have only one regret in my life. I kept climbing the ladder of success, but my wife is not in this world to see it. She left this world at a very young age due to cancer. I wish she could have seen my success," Shivaji said, his voice heavy with emotion.

As fans recently bid farewell to ACP Pradyuman’s character in CID, disappointment echoed across social media. Yet, through the character, Shivaji Satam etched an indelible mark on Indian television—an enduring legacy born out of years of struggle, sacrifice, and strength.