The Karnataka High Court has moved to close a significant legal chapter involving Bollywood superstar Ranveer Singh. On Monday, the court accepted an unconditional apology from the actor regarding a controversial mimicry act of the film Kantara performed during a public event last year.
Presiding over the matter, Justice M. Nagaprasanna orally indicated that the court is likely to dispose of the case following the submission of a revised affidavit by the actor. This development marks a major relief for Singh, who had faced backlash for allegedly disrespecting the cultural and religious sentiments associated with the coastal Karnataka tradition depicted in the blockbuster film.
The legal proceedings took a decisive turn when senior advocate Sajan Poovayya, representing Ranveer Singh, informed the bench that the actor had submitted a fresh affidavit. Unlike previous submissions, this new document contained no “conditions attached,” reflecting a sincere intent to resolve the friction caused by the incident.
Earlier in the litigation, the court had expressed reservations about the tone of the actor’s responses. However, by filing an unconditional apology, Singh has signalled his respect for the judicial process and the cultural sensitivities of the state. Justice Nagaprasanna took note of this shift, observing that the revised affidavit addressed the court’s prior concerns regarding the accountability of public figures.
Beyond the written apology, Ranveer Singh has made a personal commitment to further bridge the gap with the aggrieved community. His counsel informed the court that the actor has undertaken to visit the concerned temple—central to the Kantara lore—as a mark of respect and spiritual penance.
The bench indicated that while officially closing the case, it would record Singh’s specific commitment to complete this visit within the next four weeks. This move is seen by legal experts as a “corrective measure” that goes beyond mere legal formalities, aiming to appease the emotional and cultural hurt caused to the practitioners of the Daiva culture.
The case dates back to a public promotional event last year where Ranveer Singh reportedly mimicked a pivotal, high-energy sequence from Rishab Shetty’s Kantara. While intended as a tribute or entertainment, the performance drew sharp criticism from cultural activists and local organizations in Karnataka.
Critics argued that the Bhoota Kola and Daiva traditions depicted in the film are sacred religious practices rather than mere cinematic tropes. The subsequent legal petition alleged that the actor’s “caricatured” portrayal trivialized a deep-seated belief system. Following the outcry, a complaint was filed, eventually reaching the high court for a stay or quashing of the proceedings.
During the hearing, Justice M. Nagaprasanna emphasized the responsibility that comes with being a global icon. The court noted that while creative expression is a fundamental right, it must not infringe upon the sanctity of religious traditions.
By indicating a likelihood to dispose of the matter, the court has shown a willingness to provide a second chance to public figures who demonstrate genuine remorse. The Justice’s decision to record the temple visit in the final order serves as a reminder that the law values both personal accountability and the preservation of communal harmony.
As the actor prepares for his visit to the temple in the coming weeks, the industry will be watching closely. This resolution ensures that the focus can finally shift back to Singh’s cinematic contributions while honouring the sacred traditions that continue to inspire Indian storytelling.
