CID gets Kantara-inspired? Check out Dayanand Shetty's epic transformation

Kantara (2022) inspired a CID episode highlighting the Kola festival, with Daya in a new avatar. CID returned in 2024 after six years. Prequel Kantara: Chapter 1 releases Oct 2, 2025.

Dayanand Shetty in a still from CID

Kantara became the biggest surprise hit upon its release in 2022, setting new standards for success. It introduced the world to Indian culture in the most captivating way by bringing a tale from India's rural areas. The film's captivating narrative and exceptional performance by Rishab Shetty elevated it to a unique cinematic experience. A major television show, CID included an episode based on Kantara that demonstrated its influence on popular culture.

CID features an episode inspired by Kantara

The film highlighted the Kola festival, an Indian ritual. Kantara brought attention to the importance of this festival, which has deep roots in Indian heritage but was previously unknown. In the episode, Dayanand Shetty, who portrays Senior Inspector Daya, donned the character's attire and immersed himself in the plot's twists.

ALSO READ: CID 2: Release date, cast, OTT platform, and more about Shivaji Satam, Aditya Srivastava, and Daya Shetty's popular investigative series

The actor shared a few videos on his Instagram page, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming episode. "Will Daya be able to solve the case by taking on a new avatar?" was the caption for one of the videos.

Check it out below:

Upcoming release: Kantara: Chapter 1

Meanwhile, the makers are now preparing to continue the tradition with Kantara: Chapter 1 which takes place in Karnataka during the Kadamba era. The Kadambas ruled parts of Karnataka, profoundly influencing the region's architecture and culture.

On October 2, 2025, fans will be able to enjoy the highly anticipated release of Kantara: Chapter 1 which promises an unparalleled heavenly adventure.

Comeback of CID on television

On the other hand, CID made a comeback on TV after a wait of six years in December 2024. Thanks to its original storytelling and fresh take on crime dramas, CID became a national sensation and gained a sizable fan base. The film had an ensemble cast including Shivaji Satam (ACP Pradyuman), Aditya Srivastava (Sr. Inspector Abhijeet), Dayanand Shetty (Sr. Inspector Daya), Dinesh Phadnis (Inspector Fredricks), and Narendra Gupta (Dr. Salunkhe).

The series is also available to stream on Sony LIV (OTTPlay Premium).

ALSO READ: Dayanand Shetty on CID shutting down in 2018: 'It felt worse knowing that...'

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