Ranveer Singh has publicly apologised after a lighthearted moment at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) spiralled into a wave of online criticism. Days before the release of his upcoming action entertainer Dhurandhar, the actor found himself at the centre of a cultural controversy for mimicking a sacred sequence from Rishab Shetty’s Kantara: A Legend Chapter-1.
The Moment That Sparked the Backlash
During the closing ceremony in Goa, Ranveer took the stage and playfully recreated the intense Daiva ritual scene from Kantara, sticking his tongue out as part of the act. Rishab Shetty, who was present in the audience, watched on as Ranveer not only performed the gesture but also referred to the Daiva — revered in coastal Karnataka’s Bhoota Kola tradition — as a “female ghost.”
A clip of the moment went viral within hours, triggering anger from fans and cultural practitioners who felt the portrayal disrespected a sacred ritual. Social media filled with reactions calling the actor “insensitive” and questioning why he would attempt such mimicry at a prestigious festival event.
Ranveer Singh’s Public Apology
Facing mounting criticism, Ranveer took to Instagram this morning with a formal apology. In his note, the actor clarified that his gesture had been misinterpreted.
“My intention was to highlight Rishab’s incredible performance in the film,” he wrote. “Actor to actor, I know how much it would take to perform that scene the way he did. I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief in our country. If I’ve hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologise.”
The post quickly circulated across platforms, with many acknowledging the sincerity of his statement.
What Happened on Stage
In a clip from the ceremony, Ranveer can be seen praising Rishab’s performance before attempting the reenactment. “I watched Kantara Chapter 1 in theatres,” he said. “That moment when the Chamundi Daiva enters your body — that shot was amazing.”
As he stepped off the stage, he hugged Rishab and jokingly repeated the gesture once more. Rishab responded with a smile but gently raised a finger to signal him to stop — a moment fans later described as “graceful but firm.”
A Crucial Week for Ranveer
The controversy arrives at a sensitive time for the actor, who is counting down to the release of Dhurandhar this Friday. While the trolling was intense, industry watchers believe the actor’s swift apology may help diffuse the situation before it affects the film’s promotional momentum.
