🎠Ranveer Singh Issues Apology After IFFI 'Kantara' Controversy, Addresses Trolling Over Mimicry of Sacred Scene
Bollywood star Ranveer Singh has responded to the severe
social media backlash he faced for mimicking a powerful scene from the
blockbuster film Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 and misidentifying the
sacred deity (Daiva) during a recent awards function.
The actor, who was trolled extensively after his performance
at the closing ceremony of the 56th International Film Festival of India
(IFFI) 2025 in Goa, released a statement expressing regret for
unintentionally hurting cultural and religious sentiments.
The Incident: 'Female Ghost' Reference Sparks Outrage
The controversy began when Ranveer Singh, while praising
lead actor and director Rishab Shetty's work in Kantara, attempted to
re-enact the climactic Daiva possession scene on stage.
The crucial misstep was two-fold:
- Cultural
Disrespect: The public perceived his exaggerated mimicry of the solemn
Bhuta Kola ritual—a sacred Tulu tradition—as mockery.
- Mislabeling:
Ranveer Singh erroneously referred to the powerful deity, Chamundi Daiva,
as a "female ghost," deeply offending members of the Tulu
community who revere the Daivas as divine spirits, not specters.
The ensuing social media storm accused the actor of being
culturally insensitive and ignorant of South Indian traditions, with numerous
tweets demanding a public apology.
Ranveer Singh’s Statement: 'If I Have Hurt...'
Facing potential legal action, including a police complaint
filed by the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS), Ranveer Singh chose to address the
criticism directly with a conciliatory statement.
Key excerpts from his clarification highlighted his
intent:
“My performance at IFFI was meant to be a tribute and a
gesture of admiration for Rishab Shetty’s extraordinary, committed work in
Kantara. As an artist, I recognize the sheer depth and dedication that goes
into such a powerful performance.”
*“I hold the deepest respect for all cultures, traditions,
and religious beliefs across India. If I have hurt anyone’s sentiments or
caused offense, I sincerely apologise. It was completely unintentional.”
Understanding the Cultural Sensitivity
The strong reaction to the mimicry stems from the importance
of Bhuta Kola in Coastal Karnataka. This ancient ritualistic performance
is not mere theatrics; it is a spiritual practice where the performer is
believed to be possessed by the Daiva, acting as a medium between the divine
and the devotees.
The backlash served as a reminder of the need for cultural
awareness when referencing sacred regional traditions in a national, televised
forum.
Ahead of 'Dhurandhar' Release
With Ranveer Singh's major film release, Dhurandhar,
slated for December 5, 2025, the swift apology is a strategic move to quell the
controversy and prevent it from affecting the film's box office prospects. The
actor aims to close the chapter on the cultural faux pas and move forward.
Do you feel Ranveer Singh’s immediate and sincere apology
is sufficient to resolve the cultural sensitivity concerns raised by the
public? Let us know in the comments.
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