Actor Ranveer Singh Booked for Alleged Insult to ‘Kantara’ Daiva Tradition at IFFI

Mumbai:Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh has landed into a major controversy and legal hassle as a First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged against him in Bengaluru following his controversial mimicry of a scene from the Kannada film Kantara: Chapter 1 at the closing ceremony of the recently held International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 in Goa.

According to reports, the complaint alleges that Ranveer Singh’s actions during the prestigious festival amounted to an insult to Hindu religious sentiments and demonstrated disrespect toward the sacred Daiva tradition depicted in the film.

The Incident at IFFI Goa

At the event that was held late last year, Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh praised the stunning performance of actor-director Rishab Shetty in Kantara: Chapter 1. It is to be noted that the film is essentially deep-rooted in the Daiva and folk worship traditions of coastal Karnataka. While Singh lauded Rishab Shetty’s brilliant acting in the film, he also mimicked a pivotal scene from the movie, reportedly referring to the Chavundi Daiva as a “female ghost.” 

Videos from the ceremony went viral, showing Singh’s mimicry drawing laughter from the audience, including Shetty himself. However, several viewers, especially from communities familiar with the cultural and religious significance of the scene, described the act as insensitive and disrespectful.

Legal Action and Charges

The FIR against actor Singh was registered at the High Grounds Police Station in Bengaluru under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including provisions related to hurting religious feelings and promoting disharmony.

According to Bengaluru police, the complainant has alleged that Singh’s remarks and actions were “deliberate, intentional, and malicious,” disturbing communal harmony and promoting enmity based on religious grounds.

Backlash and Apology

Sparking intense backlash on social media, many criticised the actor for mocking a sacred cultural tradition and misrepresenting the spiritual context of the Kantara narrative.

In response, Ranveer Singh issued a public apology on Instagram after the incident, clarifying that he intended to appreciate Rishab Shetty’s performance and that he respected all cultures and traditions across India. 

Cultural Sensitivities Highlighted

It may be mentioned that the blockbuster film Kantara (both the original 2022 film and its 2025 release of Kantara: Chapter 1) delves deep into Daiva worship and Tulu Nadu folk traditions. It holds deep spiritual significance in several parts of coastal Karnataka. The controversy has reignited crucial discussions across the media about the outlook of mainstream public figures navigating cultural and religious contexts in widely viewed forums.

Ongoing Developments

As legal proceedings are expected to follow in the Bengaluru courts, the case has brought renewed attention to the challenges that arise when entertainment intersects with cultural and religious sentiments in India.

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