CID's Hrishikesh Pandey remembers his father's legacy on Father's Day, says "He taught me to stand for what's right"

Time of India

a day ago

Currently winning hearts once again in CID Season 2, actor Hrishikesh Pandey continues to bring strength, depth, and sincerity to every role he plays. But beyond the screen, that same integrity and inner strength are rooted in real life—in the values passed down by his father.
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With a career built on discipline, consistency, and dedication, Hrishikesh is as grounded in his personal life as he is successful in his professional one. As Father's Day approaches, he opens up in a heartfelt conversation about the man who shaped him long before the cameras started rolling.
'For me, Father's Day isn't just about one day. All 365 days belong to our parents,' Hrishikesh shares. 'We must constantly show them love, affection, and respect—not just celebrate them once a year and forget about it.
It's very, very important.'Raised in an army household, Hrishikesh grew up observing his father's unwavering discipline and integrity. His fondest memories aren't of grand gestures, but of the simple, meaningful moments that shaped his worldview.
'Holding his hand and going shopping, learning small things from him… He never rested during the day—always active, always doing something,' he recalls. 'I think I've inherited that habit from him: always staying busy and working.'
His father, a man of immense character, taught through actions—not lectures. And the one lesson that Hrishikesh carries closest to his heart is honesty.
'He was very honest, and I've always followed that path. I've never done wrong to anyone, never hurt people, and always tried to help others,' Hrishikesh says. 'He believed in standing for the truth—not by shouting, but by staying firm and correcting things. Even if you have to stand against your own people, do it.
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If something is wrong, it is wrong.'
That moral compass—of never wavering from the truth, no matter the pressure—continues to guide Hrishikesh in both his personal and professional life. He sees his father not just as a parent, but as a mentor whose silent lessons shaped his core.
'I honour his legacy every day. I try to live in a way that would make him proud,' Hrishikesh affirms. 'His principles—honesty, discipline, helping others—they're part of who I am.'
As he reflects on where life has taken him, there's pride, but also a sense of quiet longing.
'There were things he wanted to do in life but couldn't. I feel that by achieving something of my own, by making a name for myself, I've carried his dreams forward,' he says. 'There's regret too. I had promised to take him to certain places, and that never happened. That pain stays. But I know, wherever he is, he's watching. And he's proud.'