Returning as Dr Tarika in C.I.D. felt natural, just right: Shraddha Musale

Comebacks, especially fan favourites, always hit the right note. Experiencing a similar frenzy online is Shraddha Musale, who has marked her return to the iconic show C.I.D.’s second season – a revival that was met with much gusto from fans in December 2024 – as Dr Tarika.

“C.I.D. had already begun a few months ago, and I had always wanted to return. But I was quite busy with my startup and was constantly travelling to Dubai for the same. Once I got some breathing space and returned, things just aligned. It felt natural, like the right time — and it just happened,” the Amdavadi girl tells us.She adds, “Fans will surely get to see more of Inspector Abhijeet (played by Aditya Srivastava) and Dr Tarika.

In fact, we’ve already shot a few scenes together in the first couple of episodes. I genuinely hope the audience enjoys watching us together as much as we enjoy working together. That chemistry is something even we cherish.” ‘Dr Tarika is still the same, but evolved’ Ask her if her character arc is any different from the first time the audience had met her, and she says, “Dr Tarika is still the beloved character that people know and remember, but she has definitely evolved.

She pursued higher studies and has become a specialist in her field. So, she returns as a senior, more experienced forensic expert.” The actress adds, “There’s also a surprise element: she’s been in another profession too, before returning to the CID bureau. It’s the same Tarika, but with more depth, maturity, and surprises. What had me excited was the opportunity of working with the same cast and crew. That bond, that comfort, and that sense of belonging we share — it’s rare.

Walking back into that environment felt like home. And of course, stepping back into Tarika’s shoes made it even more special.” ‘Picked up right where I left off’ The last time people saw Dr Tarika was in 2018. How was it to be back on the set with the same cast and crew seven years later? “In some ways, it felt like I was picking up right where I left off — familiar faces, familiar energy. But because there was such a long gap, I also wanted to bring something new to the character.

I didn’t want people to feel Dr Tarika was exactly the same. So yes, it was also a fresh start — emotionally and creatively,” shares Shraddha, adding, “It was also deeply nostalgic. One unique thing about C.I.D. is that unlike most sets, we don’t have separate vanity vans — we sit in one big room. That shared space builds such a strong bond. We eat together, share chai, and chat like old times. Besides, we’ve all kept in touch even when the show wasn’t on, so there was no awkwardness.

In fact, I had dropped by the set once just to meet them — and it felt like nothing had changed, just that the show had returned with a new look.” ‘Strong content attracts audiences' In an age when social media following and numbers take precedence over talent, Shraddha believes one needs to strike a balance. “When it comes to content vs social media followers — I feel, as actors, a small part of us does belong to the people. Our job is to move them with strong stories, honest performances, and memorable characters.

If a show has great content, people will watch it, feel something, and give it their love and time,” says the actress, who is also busy balancing and enjoying her stint as a businesswoman. “At the same time, we can’t deny how much time people spend on their phones now. Today, they also want to know who you are outside of the character. And that’s okay. As actors, I believe we have a small but meaningful power to influence — to share the right things, speak up about what matters, and lead by example.

That comes with responsibility, and I try to honour that in small ways.” ‘Today, both talent and reach matter’ Having started a business, Shraddha says that she understands “the practical side of things too”. “Attention is the most expensive currency today. Sometimes brilliant content goes unseen simply because it doesn’t reach people. So, I also understand why producers might look at numbers — not just talent — because reach matters,” says the actress, adding, “That said, I don’t believe work only comes from follower count, especially not in web shows, where casting is often more balanced and thoughtful.

Auditions today do consider your digital presence, but I still feel that real craft, commitment, and a good attitude will always find their place.” ‘Memes help reach out to new audiences’ Tell her that C.I.D. characters are meme gold, and Shraddha shares, “I’ve met people who discovered the show because of the memes, and not necessarily watched the show. Times have changed and everyone consumes content differently. Some watch TV, others binge online, and some only follow content through memes and social media. But if that keeps the show alive in people’s minds and brings a smile to their face, I say — why not?” ‘Actors today must be medium agnostic’ I believe it’s important for actors to be open to all mediums.

OTT and films are slowly merging in terms of quality, and TV is still the most demanding platform — imagine delivering content every single day. If you really want to understand production intensity, join a TV set. But as artistes, we should also experience the creative highs of film and OTT. Each offers something unique. It’s about knowing what you want — and being open to different formats, without boxing yourself in. Mainstream TV has changed — not necessarily evolved — since C.I.D. first aired. How do you think actors should navigate the industry today? I believe it’s important for actors to constantly work on their craft — that’s non-negotiable. And if possible, build a personal brand that allows you to move across mediums. Whether it’s television, OTT, or films, your work should speak for you. That way, you can explore different genres and characters, and keep growing as an artiste. It’s challenging, yes, but if you're able to stay relevant and adaptable, the industry can offer a truly fulfilling career.