Yash A Patnaik Pays Emotional Tribute to 'CID' Creator BP Singh: ‘He Was a Fearless Storyteller’

The Indian television industry is mourning the loss of veteran producer-director Brijendra Pal Singh (popularly known as BP Singh), creator of iconic cult shows like CID and Aahat, who passed away on October 27 at the age of 77 following a massive heart attack. Reflecting on the monumental loss, acclaimed producer Yash A Patnaik shared a deeply emotional tribute, honoring the man who fundamentally shaped crime and thriller genres on Indian television.

Expressing his shock over Singh's demise, Patnaik recalled his seven-year association with the legendary maker and his partner, the late Pradeep Uppoor, during the formative years of CID, Sirf Char Din, Aahat, Raat Hone Ko Hai, and CID Special Bureau.

"BP Sir’s passing away has come as a rude shock, and it is still difficult to believe that he is no longer with us," shared Patnaik. "BP Sir was a fearless storyteller and a master craftsman who could create magic with his camera at the drop of a hat. He brought a distinct visual language and a fresh approach to thriller storytelling on Indian television."

Highlighting Singh's bold visual craft and technical ambition, Patnaik recalled working on the historic 'CID 111' feature-length episode—a record-breaking single-shot continuous take featuring 36 actors running for 111 minutes without a single edit cut. Patnaik noted that only a visionary of BP Singh's caliber possessed the audacity, conviction, and technical precision to execute such a monumental feat on Indian television.

Beyond their professional collaboration, Patnaik remembered Singh as a mentor and family figure whose presence deeply influenced his own career journey. Concluding his tribute, Patnaik remarked that while Indian television has lost a pioneer, Singh's legacy of visual mastery and storytelling will continue to inspire generations of filmmakers.