Ranveer Singh Issues Apology After Backlash for Mimicking ‘Kantara’ Daiva at IFFI 2025
Actor Ranveer Singh has issued a public apology after he faced intense backlash for mimicking the sacred Chamundi Daiva sequence from Kantara Chapter 1 during a ceremony at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025. His act, which many felt trivialised a revered ritual of the Tulu community, led to widespread criticism and even a formal complaint from the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS).
Ranveer attempted to recreate the scene performed by Rishab Shetty, where the actor portrays being possessed by the Chamundi Daiva. However, his imitation—including referring to the Daiva as a "female ghost"—sparked immediate outrage across social media platforms.
Background
Kantara Chapter 1, directed by and starring Rishab Shetty, is deeply rooted in Tulu culture and revolves around divine traditions, Daiva worship, and folklore. The Chamundi Daiva sequence is considered sacred and highly respected among followers of Bhoota Kola traditions. The film’s portrayal of these deities is not cinematic fantasy but cultural representation tied to long-standing community beliefs.
During the IFFI event, Ranveer praised Rishab’s performance, calling it “outstanding,” but mistakenly described the Chamundi Daiva as a “female ghost,” which many found disrespectful. His reenactment further angered viewers, who argued that sacred rituals should not be mimicked casually.
In the audience, Rishab Shetty immediately signalled Ranveer to stop, raising a finger to remind him that Daiva performances are spiritually significant and must not be recreated lightly. Ranveer acknowledged this nudge and attempted to move on, but by then the moment had already gone viral.
Industry Buzz
Ranveer Singh’s viral clip brought strong reactions online. Many users criticised the actor for not understanding cultural contexts before attempting such portrayals. The HJS filed a complaint alleging that Ranveer’s remarks and imitation hurt religious sentiments of communities who follow Daiva worship.
Film industry insiders noted that Rishab Shetty has consistently advocated for respectful representation of Tulu traditions. His immediate intervention at IFFI reflected that stance, reminding audiences—and fellow actors—that Daiva depictions carry spiritual and cultural weight.
Amid the backlash, Ranveer shared a heartfelt apology on Instagram. “My intention was to highlight Rishabh’s incredible performance,” he wrote, explaining that as a fellow actor, he was trying to appreciate the difficulty and emotional depth of performing such an intense scene.
He added that he deeply respects all cultures, traditions, and beliefs in India, stating: “If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise.”
Audience Reaction
Social media users expressed disappointment over the choice of words used by Ranveer, particularly referring to Chamundi Daiva as a “ghost.” Many argued that this reflected a lack of understanding about the cultural belief systems portrayed in Kantara.
At the same time, some fans acknowledged Ranveer’s quick acceptance of responsibility and his apology. They felt that his explanation—while not excusing the mistake—showed sincerity and willingness to learn.
The apology has helped ease some tensions, but discussions continue around the importance of cultural sensitivity when referencing regional and sacred traditions in public events.
What’s Next
With the controversy settling, attention now shifts back to Ranveer’s upcoming projects, including Dhurandhar, and to the next installment in the Kantara franchise. Industry observers believe the incident will serve as a reminder for artists and performers to research cultural practices thoroughly before referencing them on public platforms.
Rishab Shetty has not issued a formal statement, but his on-stage reaction spoke volumes, reinforcing the sanctity of Daiva traditions. Fans of Kantara hope that the cultural significance of the film continues to be understood and respected, especially as it reaches global audiences.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople
Ranveer Singh’s apology underscores the importance of cultural awareness in an increasingly diverse entertainment landscape. While actors often draw inspiration from powerful on-screen performances, recreating sacred rituals without full understanding can lead to unintentional hurt. The incident serves as a learning moment—one that emphasises respect for India’s rich and varied traditions. As conversations around cultural representation continue, empathy and sensitivity remain key to bridging the gap between admiration and appropriation.