Kantara-Inspired Act Lands Ranveer Singh in Trouble; Bengaluru Lawyer Files Complaint
Ranveer Singh Faces Legal Complaints for Alleged Mocking of Tulu Ritual at IFFI: Actor Issues Public Apology: Just days before the release of his upcoming film Dhurandhar, actor Ranveer Singh has found himself at the center of a controversy. A Bengaluru-based lawyer has filed a complaint against the actor, alleging that he mocked a sacred Tulu ritual during a stage performance at the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on November 28.
The complaint was lodged at the High Grounds Police Station by Karnataka High Court advocate Prashant Methal, who accused Ranveer of disrespecting the traditional worship practices associated with the Tulu deity Chavundi (Chamunda)—a form depicted in the Kannada film Kantara.
Complaint Alleges “Vulgar and Offensive” Mimicry
According to the lawyer’s complaint, Ranveer Singh allegedly performed an act mimicking deities such as Panjurli/Guliga, revered in coastal Karnataka, Kerala, and the Tulu-speaking region of South India.
The complaint describes his performance as vulgar, offensive, and ridiculous, claiming it hurt the sentiments of devotees and disrespected the centuries-old divine tradition.
This follows a similar complaint filed earlier by the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS), which alleged that Ranveer insulted Chamundi Devi by imitating a sacred divine form portrayed in Kantara – Chapter 1 and referring to it as a “female ghost.”
Demand for Code of Conduct at Film Festivals
Alongside calling for a police investigation, HJS urged IFFI organisers to implement a strict code of conduct to prevent insulting depictions of religious deities or rituals at future events.
Ranveer Singh Issues Apology on Instagram
As the controversy gained national attention, Ranveer Singh posted a public apology on Instagram Stories on Monday.
In his statement, he clarified that his intention was not to offend but to appreciate Rishabh Shetty’s performance in Kantara.
He wrote:
“My intention was to highlight Rishabh’s tremendous performance in the film. I deeply admire the effort behind that scene. I have always respected our country’s culture and traditions. If I have hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologize.”
What Happened On Stage?
During the IFFI closing ceremony, Ranveer stood on stage alongside Kantara actor and director Rishabh Shetty. He praised the film and referenced a dramatic possession scene, saying:
“Rishabh, that one shot—when the female spirit enters your body—was outstanding.”
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Ranveer then briefly imitated the scene, prompting laughter from the audience and even Rishabh Shetty himself.
However, while many treated it as light-hearted mimicry, the act has since been interpreted by some groups as an insult to sacred regional traditions.
Controversy Just Before Film Release
The complaints come at a sensitive time for the actor, with his film Dhurandhar approaching release. Police are yet to confirm whether a formal FIR will be registered, but the controversy has already sparked intense debate on artistic expression, cultural sensitivity, and the boundaries of stage performances.
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