Just days before the release of his upcoming film Dhurandhar, actor Ranveer Singh has found himself embroiled in a controversy. What was meant to be a respectful moment on stage has turned into an online uproar. Today (December 2), the actor issued a public apology after receiving heavy criticism from fans of Kantara and followers of the Daiva tradition.
Ranveer Singh apologies to fans over Kantara controversy
After days of backlash, Ranveer posted an official apology on his Instagram story. In his statement, the actor clarified that his actions were never meant to disrespect anyone. According to his note, Ranveer said he wanted to highlight what he considered an “incredible performance” by Rishab Shetty in the film, stating that only an actor can truly understand the level of commitment required to perform a scene of such intensity. He expressed admiration for Rishab and said he was simply trying to convey that appreciation.
Ranveer further added that he has “always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief” in the country and apologised sincerely if anyone’s sentiments were hurt by his actions. The message was seen by many as a genuine attempt to put an end to the controversy.
For the unversed, the incident took place at the closing ceremony of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 in Goa. Ranveer, who was invited on stage along with Kantara star and director Rishab Shetty, began praising the Kannada blockbuster before attempting to mimic one of its most iconic sequences - the Daiva possession scene.
In the video that went viral soon after, Ranveer can be seen sticking his tongue out and "imitating" the ritualistic expression from the film. Although Rishab Shetty smiled and hugged him initially, he reportedly raised a finger to signal Ranveer to stop when he tried to repeat it.
While the interaction looked harmless to some, it deeply upset many viewers who considered the scene sacred. The controversy escalated further because Ranveer referred to the Daiva/Bootha Kola deity as a “female ghost” while applauding the performance, which many felt was disrespectful to the cultural and spiritual significance of the tradition in coastal Karnataka.
About Dhurandhar
With Dhurandhar set to hit theatres this Friday (December 5), only time will tell whether the controversy affects the film’s release. For now, Ranveer Singh has stepped back from the comment storm and is fully focused on his upcoming film, directed by Aditya Dhar and starred Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, R Madhavan, Sara Arjun and Akshaye Khanna in lead roles.
Ranveer Singh apologies to fans over Kantara controversy
After days of backlash, Ranveer posted an official apology on his Instagram story. In his statement, the actor clarified that his actions were never meant to disrespect anyone. According to his note, Ranveer said he wanted to highlight what he considered an “incredible performance” by Rishab Shetty in the film, stating that only an actor can truly understand the level of commitment required to perform a scene of such intensity. He expressed admiration for Rishab and said he was simply trying to convey that appreciation.Ranveer Singh's apology statement (Credit: Instagram)
Ranveer further added that he has “always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief” in the country and apologised sincerely if anyone’s sentiments were hurt by his actions. The message was seen by many as a genuine attempt to put an end to the controversy.
For the unversed, the incident took place at the closing ceremony of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 in Goa. Ranveer, who was invited on stage along with Kantara star and director Rishab Shetty, began praising the Kannada blockbuster before attempting to mimic one of its most iconic sequences - the Daiva possession scene.
In the video that went viral soon after, Ranveer can be seen sticking his tongue out and "imitating" the ritualistic expression from the film. Although Rishab Shetty smiled and hugged him initially, he reportedly raised a finger to signal Ranveer to stop when he tried to repeat it.
While the interaction looked harmless to some, it deeply upset many viewers who considered the scene sacred. The controversy escalated further because Ranveer referred to the Daiva/Bootha Kola deity as a “female ghost” while applauding the performance, which many felt was disrespectful to the cultural and spiritual significance of the tradition in coastal Karnataka.
