Indian Television Mourns B.P. Singh
Brijendra Pal Singh, the visionary producer, director, and actor widely known as B.P. Singh, passed away on October 27, 2026, at the age of 77. Singh, celebrated as the creator of India's iconic crime investigation series CID and the horror show Aahat, suffered a massive heart attack, as confirmed by filmmaker Ashoke Pandit.
His demise marks the end of a decades-long career that significantly shaped Indian television, leaving an indelible mark on millions of viewers. Actor Dayanand Shetty, who portrayed Inspector Daya in CID, also acknowledged Singh's passing.
A Legacy Forged with CID
Launched in 1998, CID became one of the longest-running and most beloved crime investigation programs in India. B.P. Singh was instrumental in developing its distinctive format, focusing on murder investigations, forensic evidence, and intense interrogations by a dedicated team of officers.
The show's memorable characters, suspenseful storylines, and often-quoted dialogues cemented its place in popular culture, establishing crime investigation as a prominent genre in Indian television. Singh's commitment ensured the program's enduring popularity, with repeat telecasts continuing to captivate audiences years after its initial run.
Beyond the Camera: DCP Chitrole
While B.P. Singh garnered widespread recognition for his work behind the scenes, he also became a familiar face to CID viewers through his on-screen portrayal of DCP Shamsher Singh Chitrole. His character, a senior police officer, added another layer to the crime-solving narrative, interacting with the central investigative team.
This dual role underscored his deep personal connection to the series, which he not only helmed as creator, producer, and director but also actively participated in as an actor, becoming a recognisable presence for the show's loyal fanbase.
A Prolific Career in Storytelling
B.P. Singh's career spanned several decades, starting as a news cameraman with Doordarshan in 1973. He was also associated with Ek Shunya Shunya, an earlier crime series, before transitioning into television production.
From 2018 to 2020, Singh served as chairman of the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), further solidifying his influence in the media industry. His extensive list of notable productions includes CID: Special Bureau, Achanak 37 Saal Baad, Raat Hone Ko Hai, Hum Ne Li Hai... Shapath, the silent comedy Gutur Gu, and the crime-fantasy series SuperCops Vs Super Villains, among many others.