Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh has broken his silence and issued a public apology following widespread outrage and a formal complaint over his on-stage imitation of a sacred sequence from Rishab Shetty’s blockbuster film, Kantara: Chapter 1. The apology, shared on his Instagram Stories, addresses the criticism that his act, performed during the closing ceremony of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 in Goa, hurt religious and cultural sentiments.
The controversy escalated when a viral video showed Ranveer recreating the dramatic Daiva possession scene—where the goddess’s spirit enters Rishab Shetty’s character—and mistakenly referring to the revered deity, Chamundi Daiva, as a “female ghost.” The combination of the mimicry and the inaccurate reference drew immediate, severe backlash from the Tulu community and Hindu groups, leading to a police complaint being filed.
Ranveer Singh’s apology, posted on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, clarified that his actions were rooted in admiration for his fellow actor’s craft and were not meant to be disrespectful.
The actor’s full statement read:
“My intention was to highlight Rishab’s incredible performance in the film. Actor to actor, I know how much it would take to perform that particular scene in the way that he did, for which he has my utmost admiration.”
He further acknowledged the cultural hurt caused, adding:
“I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise.”
This statement addresses the core of the controversy, seeking to separate his artistic appreciation for Rishab Shetty’s work from the unintentional offense caused by his public performance of a scene with profound spiritual significance for the Tulu community of coastal Karnataka.
The incident occurred during the star-studded IFFI closing ceremony where Ranveer Singh was present alongside Kantara star and director, Rishab Shetty. Footage captured Ranveer on stage praising Rishab Shetty for his exceptional performance in the climax of the prequel.
Ranveer said, “I watched Kantara Chapter 1 in theatres, and Rishab, it was an outstanding performance, especially when the female ghost enters your body—that shot was amazing.” He then proceeded to enthusiastically imitate the ritualistic expression, which included exaggerated eye movements and sticking his tongue out.
While Rishab Shetty and other audience members initially appeared amused, the viral clip sparked a massive negative reaction online.
The controversy deepened when reports surfaced that Rishab Shetty had subtly gestured for Ranveer to stop the mimicry earlier in the evening, further fueling the online accusation of disrespect.
The cultural backlash quickly moved beyond social media. On Monday, a day before the apology was issued, the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) submitted a formal police complaint against Ranveer Singh to the Panaji Police in Goa.
The complaint alleged that the actor insulted Goddess Chamundadevi by depicting the deity in a derogatory manner, and the outfit demanded that Ranveer issue a public apology and assure he would refrain from such performances in the future. The HJS memorandum stated that such acts could cause public resentment and disturb peace, compelling the actor to issue the swift public statement.
With the apology now released, the industry hopes the matter finds a quick conclusion, especially as Ranveer Singh prepares for the theatrical release of his upcoming spy thriller, Dhurandhar, this Friday.
