Bollywood powerhouse Ranveer Singh, known for his unbridled energy and enthusiasm, has found himself in the middle of a serious legal controversy. The actor, who often lights up stages with his antics, is now facing a police complaint for his recent act at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. What was intended as a tribute to Rishab Shetty’s blockbuster Kantara has backfired, with allegations that he has hurt the religious sentiments of the Tulu-speaking community by mocking the sacred ‘Daiva’ tradition.
The trouble began when Ranveer Singh, during his stage address at the IFFI closing ceremony on November 28, attempted to recreate the intense ‘Ullalthi Daiva’ scene from Kantara Chapter 1. A Bengaluru-based advocate, Prashanth Metal, has lodged a formal complaint against the superstar at the High Grounds Police Station. The complaint alleges that while Ranveer was ostensibly praising Rishab Shetty’s performance, his description of the Daiva as a “demon” and a “female ghost” was deeply offensive and derogatory to the sanctity of the tradition revered by millions.
The legal action is no small matter. The advocate has invoked serious sections under the new Bharat Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, specifically Sections 299, 302, and 196. The complainant argues that Ranveer’s “illegal and offensive actions” have hurt the sentiments of the Hindu community, particularly those from the coastal Karnataka region where the Daiva culture is not just folklore but a way of life and worship. The viral video of the act drew immediate backlash on social media, with netizens criticizing the actor for trivializing a divine practice for stage entertainment.
Sensing the rising tide of public anger, Ranveer Singh moved quickly to issue a public apology on his Instagram handle just a day before the complaint was filed. In his statement, he clarified that his intention was solely to highlight Rishab Shetty’s incredible acting prowess. He wrote, “Actor to actor, I know how much it takes to perform that particular scene the way he did, for which he has my utmost admiration.” He further added that he deeply respects every culture and tradition in the country and apologized sincerely if he had unintentionally hurt anyone’s sentiments. However, despite the apology, the legal machinery has been set in motion, and it remains to be seen how this controversy unfolds for the Simmba star.
