A fresh controversy has erupted around Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh after a complaint was filed against him in Bengaluru for allegedly hurting religious sentiments by mimicking a revered Daiva ritual scene from Kantara Chapter 1 during a stage appearance at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on November 28.
The complaint was lodged at the High Grounds Police Station by Bengaluru-based advocate Prashanth Metal, who accused the actor of delivering “illegal and offensive” remarks during his recreation of Rishab Shetty’s Ullalthi Daiva performance. According to the complainant, Ranveer’s comments—where he allegedly described the Daiva as a “demon” and “female ghost”—deeply offended “millions of Hindus, particularly the Tulu-speaking community of Karnataka”.
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Ranveer Singh calls Devi as Ghost, sparks outrage#RanveerSingh #IFFIGoa #IFFI2025 #kantara pic.twitter.com/V8SEFAJ4cA— Nilesh shukla (@Nilesh_isme) November 30, 2025
Ranveer Singh’s Mimicry at IFFI Triggers Outrage
The issue surfaced after a viral video from IFFI showed Ranveer enthusiastically recalling scenes from Kantara Chapter 1. In the clip, he said, “Rishab’s performance was outstanding, especially when the female ghost enters your body; that shot was so amazing.”
Advocate Prashanth Metal filed charges under Sections 299, 302, and 196 of the Bharat Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, stating that Ranveer’s actions amounted to deliberate insult and misrepresentation of a sacred tradition.
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He also alleged that the actor’s remarks at IFFI were derogatory, arguing that the portrayal could influence audiences unfamiliar with the cultural and spiritual significance of Daiva worship.
Ranveer Singh Issues Public Apology
Amid rising backlash, Ranveer Singh issued an apology on his Instagram Story on Wednesday, acknowledging concerns while clarifying his intentions.
“My intention was to highlight Rishab’s incredible performance in the film. Actor to actor, I know how much it takes to perform that particular scene the way he did, for which he has my utmost admiration,” he wrote.
He added, “I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition, and belief in our country. If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise.”
Despite the apology, protests and heated discussions continue online, with many users accusing the actor of disrespecting a living spiritual tradition.
Trolling and Social Media Outrage
The actor has since been heavily trolled on social media as the video continues to circulate widely. Several users claimed that such mimicry crossed a line, particularly given the sacred nature of the Daiva tradition in coastal Karnataka.
Meanwhile, Rishab Shetty—whose depiction of Daiva worship in Kantara Chapter 1 won global acclaim—has yet to comment on the controversy.
