New Delhi: Actor Ranveer Singh has courted controversy after mimicking Rishabh Shetty’s Chavundi Daiva character in the climax of the blockbuster mythological drama Kantara Chapter 1.
According to NDTV, Bengaluru lawyer Prashant Metal has filed the complaint against Singh, who had reprized Rishabh Shetty’s performance as Ullalathi Daiva during his stage address at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on November 28.
The complaint alleged that Ranveer’s actions were “illegal and objectionable” and hurt the sentiments of “millions of Hindus, especially the Tulu speaking community of Karnataka”. High Grounds police station registered a complaint under sections 299, 302 and 196 of the Indian Code of Justice (BNS), 2023.
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The lawyer also said that Singh made derogatory remarks about Ullalathi Daiva during his address at the closing ceremony of IFFI. This comes a day after Ranveer issued a public apology following widespread backlash.
Ranveer wrote, “My intention was to highlight Rishabh’s incredible performance in the film. From actor to actor, I know how much time it takes to perform that particular scene the way he did, for which he praises me immensely. I have always deeply respected every culture, tradition and belief of our country. If I have hurt anyone’s sentiments, I sincerely apologize.”
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Understanding Divine Worship and its Sacred Significance
Kantara films have drawn widespread attention to Daiva Puja, an age-old spiritual practice deeply rooted in the coastal Tulunadu region of Karnataka. This tradition, known locally as Dhaivaradhane, holds deep religious and cultural significance for the Tulu community. It involves invoking divine spirits through rituals and ceremonial dances, acting as a bridge between the human and spiritual worlds.
In Kantara, Daiva is portrayed as a revered divine entity. The possession scenes are designed to reflect the intensity of the ritual, highlighting both its spiritual power and deep emotional resonance for practitioners and devotees.
What happens when we forget our research?
Ranveer Singh called Devi a ghost, anger erupted!#Ranveer Singh #IFFIGoa #IFFI2025 #kantara pic.twitter.com/V8SEFAJ4cA– Nilesh Shukla (@Nilesh_isme) 30 November 2025
Kantara Chapter 1: A Glimpse into the Mysterious Traditions of Tulu Nadu
Kantara Chapter 1 explores the rich history of Guliga Daiva and the Bhoota Kola ritual, taking the audience into the mystical traditions of Tulu Nadu. The story is based on a kingdom ruled by a just king and his sister Kanakavati, while Bern, a fierce forest warrior, leads the opposing forces. Through their struggles, the film combines folklore, devotion and power, bringing these ancient rituals vividly alive on screen.